Severe Storm to Hit Area Wednesday, Thursday

Area residents are bracing for a severe winter storm that began to move in last night and is expected to grow today and continue into Thursday.

The National Weather Service in Cheyenne, Wyo. issued a statement saying a Winter Storm Watch is now in effect starting at midnight early Wednesday morning and continuing through late Thursday afternoon. A strong winter storm was expected to move into the central plains Tuesday night and rapidly strengthen. Heavy snow and wind gusts over 50 miles per hour are expected with this storm during the day today, and may result in blizzard conditions across the eastern plains.

The turn in weather comes as a "Colorado Low" tracks into eastern Colorado. Colorado lows are notorious for bringing very heavy snow and blizzard conditions to southeast Wyoming and Nebraska Panhandle. Such is the case with this low pressure system. Moderate snow could be ongoing this morning, but will get heavier as the morning progresses. Best areas for heavy snow look to be the Nebraska Panhandle and areas east of the Laramie Range if the low keeps its expected track.

The Weather Service warned if you're planning travel through southeast Wyoming and Nebraska Panhandle today and Thursday, it is recommended to change your plans. Major travel impacts are looking likely Thursday across the area.

Blizzard conditions are expected. Total snow accumulations of 10 to 18 inches expected with periods of intense snowfall rates. Winds gusting as high as 60 mph. The period of most intense winds is expected to begin this afternoon.

Travel could be very difficult to impossible with snowpacked roads. Blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility causing whiteout conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the morning or evening commute. Strong winds could cause tree damage and sporadic power outages. Snowdrifts could be several feet deep in some locations.