Goodland, Kansas – A winter travel hazard is unfolding across northwest Kansas, southwest Nebraska, and eastern Colorado this afternoon and evening as freezing fog spreads light ice and dense visibility reductions across the region. Roads are becoming slick, especially on elevated surfaces, with conditions expected to worsen after sunset.
Freezing fog is producing a thin glaze of ice on roadways, bridges, and overpasses, while dense fog sharply reduces visibility in spots. The greatest risk is during the late afternoon and evening hours, when temperatures remain below freezing and untreated surfaces ice over quickly.
According to the National Weather Service office in Goodland, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect through midnight CST tonight for Rawlins, Decatur, Norton, Thomas, Sheridan, and Graham counties in Kansas, along with Hitchcock and Red Willow counties in Nebraska. Additional advisory areas extend across Yuma, Kit Carson, and Cheyenne counties in Colorado, plus Sherman, Wallace, Logan, Gove, Greeley, and Wichita counties in Kansas. Cities impacted include Goodland, Colby, Norton, Hill City, McCook, Oberlin, Atwood, Oakley, Tribune, Burlington, Wray, and Benkelman.
Travel along I-70, U.S. 36, U.S. 83, and local highways may become hazardous, particularly after dark when ice is harder to see. According to local transportation officials, drivers should slow down, increase following distance, and use caution on ramps, bridges, and rural roads. Pedestrians should also watch for icy sidewalks, stairs, and parking lots, where falls are more likely.
The fog and ice combination can change rapidly, even over short distances. Residents are encouraged to avoid unnecessary travel this evening and allow extra time if driving is required. Temperatures are expected to remain cold overnight, keeping icy spots in place until conditions improve later tonight.
