Swaths of snow and sleet have impacted the region throughout the day, with more intense rounds moving through this afternoon creating slick spots that have lead to traffic accidents.
With this being the case, a Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for our entire coverage area that will last through 9am Wednesday. You know what that means…
What’s Going On
A series of upper level disturbances are swinging southeast out of Missouri through the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Combine this with available moisture, temperature profiles near freezing, and we’re getting scattered blasts of sleet/snow across the area. Here’s the radar as of 2pm:
This pattern will continue through early evening, before a brief lull arrives. Another round could move through late tonight into Wednesday morning.
Concerns & Impacts
We’ve received reports of wrecks already, including on the Natcher Parkway, thanks to wet pavement, along with slick spots due to the heavy rates of frozen precipitation.
We have some of our county crews patrolling for icy spots as temps in some areas are dropping. Please be aware that bridges and overpasses will freeze first. #kywx
— KYTC District 3 (@KYTCDistrict3) December 4, 2018
Across our coverage area, air temperatures are in the mid 30s, with pavement temps reading around 40˚…so, why are there wrecks, you ask?
Even though temps are well above freezing, the moderate/heavy swaths of wintry precip are preventing immediate melting, allowing slippery conditions to develop in spots.
Our concern for slick travel will increase more as we get into this evening and overnight. Another round of snow showers may move through during this time, coinciding with temps sliding below freezing, to the upper 20s.
When it comes to travel, this is no bueno. The latest HRRR illustrates what may unfold. It’s valid through 9am Wednesday morning, and keeps scattered snow around for much of the time period:
Bridges and overpasses will fall victim first, with secondary/side roads following. Obviously, some primary routes may be impacted as well. Use caution, regardless of how far you’re traveling, if you plan on being out and about.
Regarding accumulations, we’re not expecting much. Some may not see anything, while others who get caught in the scattered snow showers tonight may receive ~.5-1″ of total snowfall.
Do not focus on amounts of snow…focus on the potential for impacts. The Wednesday morning commute will need to be closely monitored.
Frequent Updates
As always, the @wxornotBG team will be on top of this event as it evolves. Follow along on our real-time weather feed for frequent updates.
After lingering snow tapers off Wednesday, filtered sunshine should arrive by afternoon. Don’t let it fool you…it’ll stay cold, with highs only making it to the upper 30s during the afternoon.
Stay safe, and have a great rest of your Tuesday.