Christmas Winter Storm Continues to Impact Travel
A major Christmas winter storm that has already brought heavy snowfall and freezing rain to the central U.S. is expected to continue impacting travel, according to forecasts.
Another four to six inches of snow is expected over the western High Plains on Tuesday, the National Weather Service said in an update early Tuesday.
"The combination of either falling snow or snow on the ground with strong winds will lead to areas of blowing snow and near-blizzard conditions this morning," NWS said. "Travel may be difficult to near impossible due to snow-covered roads and whiteout conditions."
The agency also warned about fallen tree branches and power lines.
The large storm system will continue to bring severe winter weather to portions of north-central U.S. through early Wednesday, NWS said in an update Tuesday afternoon.
An additional two to four inches of snow, with local totals of eight inches, are expected across western South Dakota, western Nebraska, far eastern Wyoming, and northeastern Colorado, with some lighter snow into the mid-Missouri Valley, according to NWS.
Heavy Snowfall and Blizzard Conditions Expected in South Dakota and Nebraska
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a warning for areas of south-central South Dakota and north-central Nebraska, stating that there is a high probability of over a foot of total snowfall. The heavy snowfall, combined with wind gusts of up to 55 mph, will lead to blizzard conditions.
In addition, parts of northern and eastern South Dakota, as well as southern and eastern North Dakota, are currently experiencing a freezing rain event, according to the NWS.
Portions of Interstate 90 have been closed due to the severe weather, and roads west of Interstate 29 are either partially or completely covered in snow, as reported by NWS Sioux Falls on Twitter. The NWS also warns that roads will remain slick due to light precipitation, with the potential for refreezing and light icing.
Meanwhile, in eastern Colorado, a blizzard warning has resulted in the full closure of Interstate 70 for several hours. The warning affects parts of Colorado, Wyoming, Kansas, Nebraska, and South Dakota.
Drivers are urged to exercise caution and drive safely in these hazardous conditions.
Sources: NWS Sioux Falls Twitter, NWS Sioux Falls Twitter, CBS Colorado
