Wed Feb 12 11:10:00 UTC 2025: **Headline: Major Winter Storm Brings Hazardous Conditions to Kansas, Nebraska, and Colorado**
WICHITA, Kan. (KAKE) – A major winter storm is blanketing portions of eastern Colorado, northwest Kansas, and southwest Nebraska with heavy snow, creating hazardous travel conditions and prompting winter storm warnings and advisories across the region.
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a Winter Storm Warning for areas expected to receive 4 to 8 inches of snow, with some locations potentially seeing up to 7 inches. A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for areas anticipating 3 to 6 inches of accumulation. In south-central and southwest Kansas, a separate advisory predicts an additional 1 to 3 inches.
The storm, which began overnight, is bringing moderate to occasionally heavy snow through sunrise. Accumulation is expected to end from west to east, with most areas seeing the snow taper off by noon. However, northeast winds of 10 to 20 mph may cause blowing snow, further reducing visibility.
Dangerously cold wind chills, ranging from 15 to 25 degrees below zero, are forecast for late tonight and Thursday morning. Authorities urge residents to take precautions.
**Travel Impacts:**
The NWS strongly advises against travel, if possible. For those who must travel, extreme caution is urged. Drivers should be prepared for snow-covered roads, sudden changes in visibility, and potentially slick bridges and overpasses. Allow extra travel time and avoid sudden braking or acceleration. Dial 511 for the latest road conditions in Kansas, Nebraska, and Colorado. GPS should not be used for alternate routes or to bypass barricades.
Authorities also recommend ensuring vehicles are winterized and in good working order, and suggest carrying emergency supplies such as flashlights, food, and water, if traveling is unavoidable.
The hazardous conditions are expected to impact both morning and evening commutes. Interstate 70 in northwest Kansas is likely to experience significant travel delays.
**Unrelated Note:** Wichita Police have officially ruled out a maroon sedan as being connected to an attempted abduction incident that occurred on Monday. The investigation continues, and authorities are seeking information regarding the suspect, described as a man with a medium complexion, medium muscular build, approximately 6 feet tall with dark curly hair and a short black beard. Anyone with information is urged to contact 911.
First Piper 