A slow-moving, multi-hazard storm will develop late this week, bringing heavy snow to the Central Rockies and Central High Plains, as well as flooding rainfall from the Plains through the Ohio Valley.
Snow
Snow will begin Thursday evening across the Rockies, expanding eastward into the Central High Plains by Friday morning. The heaviest accumulations of 1-2 feet will occur with rates up to 2"/hr across the eastern slopes of the Central Rockies. Snow of 2-3 feet with rates to 3"/hr will occur across the Front Range.
The potential exists for even higher amounts of snow, in the 3-6 foot range, should the storm take a slightly more southern track and allow the highest peaks of the Rockies to be on the receiving end of upslope moisture.
The greatest disruption to travel and transportation will be on Saturday into Saturday night when the snowfall rates are heaviest and high winds create blizzard conditions across a large portion of the High Plains.
Flooding Rain
Multiple rounds of flooding rainfall are expected from Thursday evening into the weekend, with rainfall rates reaching 2”/hour at times. The potential for widespread flooding exists from northeastern Oklahoma into southeastern Kansas and southern Missouri, as abnormally high rainfall rates will occur over still dormant vegetation.
With flooding occurrences becoming more frequent as we head into spring, now is the time for businesses to review their assets in relation to flood zones and ensure flood safety is a part of their emergency action plan.
AccuWeather For Business will provide site-specific warnings to clients during this period for varying rainfall amounts and rates that are determined based on geographical location, flood frequency, and site design and material.
Severe Storms
Read more about what to expect this season in terms of severe weather and check back for a more detailed update on this weekend’s severe threat.
Impacts
- Major disruptions to logistical operations are expected with lengthy travel delays due to heavy snow and strong winds causing blowing snow as well as near-zero visibility at times
- Expect significant airport delays for any flights originating or ending across the region, particularly in Denver, as well as any connecting flights. This may have downstream effects for other airports not directly impacted by this storm
- Be prepared for extensive closures and take this time to review policies and communicate with employees to confirm your organization handles this storm as best as possible
- Temporary COVID-19 response structures and structures with large span roofs will be especially at risk in high winds and when snow load adds weight
- Protect your company against liability by ensuring any employees driving in bad weather on company time are trained in safe, cautious driving techniques and know the actions to take in the event of an accident
- Disruptions to logistical operations are expected, with travel delays due to snow and local washouts of roadways and railroad track as well as river flooding
