Snow, frigid temps on the way

Residents across the Southeast Missouri and Northern Arkansas regions are again in the crosshairs of an approaching winter storm, this one expected to blanket the area with a dusting to 6 inches of snow starting Saturday night, followed by bitter cold temperatures.

“We’re definitely going to see some winter weather. The National Weather Service is calling for a 100-percent chance of precipitation,” said Poplar Bluff Severe Weather Response Team Director Craig Meador.

National Weather Service Senior Meteorologist Daniel Spaeth said the agency still is uncertain exactly how much snow will fall, but “there could be an inch or two in Poplar Bluff.”

Rain is expected throughout Saturday afternoon in the southern portion of the region, while northern areas may see snow during the day. By 9 p.m. Saturday, the entire area should see snow.

“There is a possibility of a little freezing rain before the snow,” added Meador.

“Anything that does fall will stick around,” Meador said, because after the front passes Sunday morning, much colder air will move into the region, bringing bitter cold temperatures for a couple days.

“It’s going to be very cold Sunday night into Monday morning,” said Meador.

“This will be one of the colder shots we’ve had this winter,” added Spaeth.

Overnight temperatures are predicted to be in the low teens Sunday, Monday and Tuesday nights, Meador noted, and with winds gusting to 25 mph, wind chills will be around zero. Daytime temperatures will be in the mid 20s to lower 30s.

Butler County Emergency Management Director Robbie Myers said residents should plan ahead and make common-sense preparations for such weather.

“Make sure you have enough food and water at home,” he emphasized.

Other precautions, Myers said, include making sure children are bundled up if they must wait outside for a school bus and being careful with the use of space heaters.

Spaeth recommended residents stay home if possible.

“If you don’t have to go out, don’t. Try to stay off the roads, but if you have to get out, make sure people know where you’re going,” he said.