Goodland, KS – A powerful blizzard is set to impact parts of northwest Kansas, east-central Colorado, and southwest Nebraska starting early Tuesday morning, bringing whiteout conditions and dangerously strong winds.
According to the National Weather Service in Goodland, the blizzard warning remains in effect from 2 a.m. MST (3 a.m. CST) Tuesday until 11 p.m. MST (midnight CST). Snowfall accumulation is expected to be between 1 and 3 inches, but wind gusts reaching up to 65 mph will create hazardous blowing and drifting snow, significantly reducing visibility.
Areas affected by the warning include Goodland, Atwood, Bird City, St. Francis, Burlington, Stratton, Wray, Yuma, Benkelman, Trenton, Culbertson, and Palisade. The strongest winds and worst visibility are expected during the Tuesday morning and evening commutes, making travel extremely dangerous.
The National Weather Service advises against non-essential travel. Those who must travel should carry a winter survival kit and stay with their vehicle if stranded. Drivers are urged to check road conditions by calling 511 in Kansas, Nebraska, and Colorado.
Interstate 70 and surrounding roadways could see near-impossible travel conditions due to blowing and drifting snow. Whiteout conditions may cause disorientation, creating life-threatening situations. Residents are encouraged to secure outdoor objects, prepare for potential power outages, and avoid unnecessary travel until conditions improve late Tuesday night.
