Break out the winter jackets and the gloves because winter is here. We’re tracking snow that is already up in the panhandle and parts of New Mexico. This snow will eventually make it’s way here, however, it will first start off as rain. Isolated rain is possible tonight ahead of the snow. The rain will begin around midnight, and with temperatures well above freezing in Lubbock, this will not cause any issues. The snow will arrive in Lubbock sometime after 3AM. The first flakes will not stick immediately as the ground temperatures will still be above freezing, however, as temperatures rapidly drop and the ground gets colder the snow will begin to stick. The snow will continue into your morning commute tomorrow making a slick drive to work.
If you have to go to work tomorrow be sure to avoid any overpasses and bridges as they will be the first to have snow stick to them. You also want to make sure you leave enough room between you and the person in front of you, and take your time while driving. Winds will be sustained at 20-30 mph with higher gusts. Combine the snow and the windy conditions, and visibility will be reduced drastically.
Snow totals will be higher in areas to the north. 1-3″ is possible for areas north of Lubbock County, with some locally higher amounts. Here in Lubbock, a dusting to 1″ is possible. Areas south of Lubbock County will see a dusting if that.
Another big factor tomorrow is the feels like temperatures. High temperatures will be in the 20s and 30s, but with the windy conditions, it’ll actually feel like the teens and single digits. You want to make sure you wear layers if you go outside tomorrow. Don’t forget the heavy coat, scarf, hat, and gloves.
All of the snow will move out of the South Plains by the afternoon, but with temperatures staying below freezing most of the day there could be some slick spots by the evening commute.
Stay warm and have a great week!
-Meteorologist Kellianne Klass
Facebook: Meteorologist Kellianne Klass
Twitter: @KellianneWX