January 3rd Winter Storm Review

January 3rd, 2015 Winter Storm Review

A fast moving yet potent winter storm progressed northeast across the southern and central plains during the afternoon and evening of January 3rd. Preciptation initially began as a wintry mix of light sleet and snow, but quickly transitioned to all snow by early evening. Since temperatures were near freezing, the snow had a high liquid content and stuck to everything, and resulted in slushy roads. Light to moderate snow dominated through the event, although cold temperatures aloft resulted in a few relatively narrow bands of heavy snow, one of which was situated generally along the Kansas Turnpike corridor, and another over central Kansas. Snowfall rates within these narrow bands were 1 to 2 inches per hour at times. Total accumulations were generally 1 to 3 inches across the region, although locally higher amounts of 3 to 5 inches affected western and northern portions of the Wichita Metro, as well as portions of central Kansas from roughly Lyons to Salina. Furthermore, a strong arctic front ushered much colder temperatures and very strong northwest winds south across the region during the evening hours, resulting in areas of blowing and drifting snow and reduced visibilities. The rapid temperature drop also resulted in very slick roads.