Parts of Missouri Could Get Slammed by Foot of Snow by Next Week

As we get closer to the time when the winter storm system will impact Missouri, we're starting to get estimates on what is possible and that's a key word. Current ensembles of computer models show a high probability that parts of Missouri will get slammed by up to a foot of snow by early next week.

The National Weather Service has not issued an official forecast or advisory yet and that's the only thing that should cause you to change any plans. I share this as information on what is possible and now looks likely to happen. Meteorologist Travis Roberts just shared the ensemble which is a combination of multiple computer models and what they believe will be snowfall totals by next Tuesday, January 7. Notice that the pink area which is around a foot of snow covers the northern half of Missouri at the moment.

Here's a map that shows the likelihood of an area to receive 6 inches or more of snow. Again, most of Missouri is in the 90% range now which is all but certain.

What is the National Weather Service saying about this incoming storm?

The short answer is not much - yet. They still warn that the track of the storm is unknown as are the types of precipitation. Some places in Missouri will get snow while others see freezing rain and/or ice. Some places will get all of the above.

When will the storm arrive in Missouri?

Currently, it looks like winter precipitation should begin late Saturday night, January 4 or overnight Sunday, January 5. Expect hazardous driving conditions no matter where you are in Missouri all day Sunday, January 5 and possibly into Monday, January 6.

Let me emphasize again - do NOT make plans based on computer models. Only make important decisions based on National Weather Service official forecasts and warnings. My guess is you'll begin to see a winter storm watch in the next 24 hours for most of Missouri. It will be interesting to see what track this storm takes as it impacts the state this weekend and into next.