The United States weather agency, the National Weather Service (NWS), has issued a winter storm watch for central parts of the country as a winter storm system is expected to develop this week bringing travel disruptions.
According to a report by the NWS, "a winter storm system is expected to develop over the central and southern plains" on Monday before tracking east-northeastward into the Midwest through Tuesday.
Additionally, the report stated that "adverse winter weather is forecast across parts of the central US through at least early January 10."
Heavy snowfall and strong winds are expected, potentially causing blizzard conditions in some areas.
Meanwhile, accumulations of up to 15-30 cm (6-12 inches) are possible, with winds gusting up to 70 kph (43 mph). Driving conditions are likely due to reduced visibility from blowing snow.
The NWS report also reported that the agency has issued blizzard warnings in several areas, including Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska.
Winter storm warnings have been issued in Utah, Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, and Missouri.
Weather watches and advisories have been issued across the affected areas, and officials may update and extend the coverage of these alerts in the coming days.
In addition to the heavy snow, strong wind gusts will likely lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow in some areas. Blizzard conditions are possible. Sporadic power outages could occur throughout the affected area.
The extreme winter weather is expected to cause disruptions in ground and air transport, leading to traffic and commercial trucking delays along regional highways.
Furthermore, driving conditions are likely to be hazardous on secondary and rural roads, with authorities potentially closing highways if conditions become too hazardous.
Flight delays and cancellations are also expected due to ground stops and deicing operations at regional airports.
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