LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – Enjoy Thursday’s mild weather while it lasts. Our anticipated arctic front will push into the region before sunrise Friday, bringing a dramatic shift in conditions and an impactful winter storm this weekend.
A Winter Storm Watch and Extreme Cold Watch are in effect for the entire area.
KCBD(KCBD)Today: The Calm Before the Storm
Thursday will be the last warm day before the cold arrives. Highs will reach the mid-50s to around 60 degrees, making it a pleasant day to be outside. South winds will develop by late morning and early afternoon, helping to push temperatures upward.
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However, don’t let the warmth fool you as significant changes are on the way.
Friday: The Cold Arrives and Snow Begins
An arctic front will move through the region before sunrise Friday, ushering in dangerously cold air. Precipitation should start by Friday afternoon, initially arriving as a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain.
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Ice accumulation is likely during the Friday evening and night timeframe, with the potential for significant icing over the south east near Jayton and Aspermont. Icing should be lightest in the northern part of the viewing area and rest of the South Plains.
Weekend: Winter Storm + Extreme Cold
A potent winter storm will bring an extended period of wintry precipitation from late Friday through early Sunday. Here’s what to expect:
Timing: A Winter Storm Watch is in effect from noon Friday through noon Sunday. There could be a lull in precipitation Saturday morning, but heavy precipitation will return Saturday afternoon through Saturday night.
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Precipitation Type: Precipitation will initially be a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain Friday evening. Saturday afternoon and Saturday night, precipitation should be mostly or all snow, and this is when the bulk of the snow accumulation is expected to occur. Freezing rain may continue longer over southern portions of the Rolling Plains.
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Snow Accumulation: Significant snow accumulations are possible. The heaviest snow totals are expected over northern portions of the viewing area. Snow accumulation will vary by location. The Lubbock National Weather Service thinks the Lubbock area can expect 4 to 6 inches of snow.
Dangerous Cold: Extremely cold temperatures are expected over the weekend with morning lows in the single digits on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Wind chills as low as 15 below zero are possible each morning. An Extreme Cold Watch is in effect from midnight Saturday morning through noon Sunday.
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Travel: Significant snow and ice accumulations are possible, and travel will likely be very difficult this weekend. Plan accordingly.
Preparing for Extreme Cold
This will be the first time this winter we experience sub-zero wind chills this season. Plan to reduce time outdoors and take proper precautions to avoid frostbite and hypothermia if you do need to be outside. Dress in layers with a waterproof outer layer, cover exposed skin, and limit outdoor exposure.
What You Should Do Now
Prepare your home and vehicles immediately do not wait until tomorrow. Stock up on essentials, medications, and groceries before Friday afternoon. Charge all devices and have flashlights and batteries ready. Check on elderly neighbors and family members throughout the weekend. Avoid travel this weekend if possible because conditions will be dangerous. Ensure heating systems are working properly. Bring pets indoors and protect outdoor animals.
Looking Ahead
Dry weather returns early next week, but temperatures will remain below normal. As this system approaches, we’ll continue to monitor the timing and intensity of the winter storm and provide detailed forecasts throughout the week.
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