With bitter cold temperatures forecast all weekend, it's important to bring your pets indoors.

Humane Educator Aubrey Silvey for St. Joseph Animal Control and Rescue says it's important to bring animals inside during these frigid temperatures.

"We really recommend that if you're able to bring your pet inside even if it's in the basement or even if you have to crate your dog when you bring it inside," Silvey tells St. Joseph Post. "If you could just do that through these really frigid temperatures, that's the best thing you can do." 

Silvey says if you can't bring your pets indoors, make sure you provide adequate shelter for them outside. 

"For dog houses, you want to make sure that the floor of the doghouse is off of the ground because the ground can take the heat away from the dog house," says Silvey. "You want the door of the doghouse to be facing away from the wind and a flap on that dog house is preferable."

Silvey says if you have an animal living outdoors through the winter months, it's important to remember they are going to need a high quality diet. 

"Keeping their bodies warm depletes their energy so they do require more food to stay healthy weight and to be able to keep warm," says Silvey. 

If you see an animal in city limits outside for a long time, contact animal control. 

By WHITNEE ICESt. Joseph PostWith bitter cold temperatures forecast all weekend, it's important to bring your pets indoors.Humane Educator Aubrey Silvey for St. Joseph Animal Control and Rescue says it's important to bring animals inside during these frigid temperatures."We really recommend that if you're able to bring your pet inside even if it's in the basement or even if you have to crate your dog when you bring it inside," Silvey tells St. Joseph Post. "If you could just do that through these really frigid temperatures, that's the best thing you can do." Silvey says if you can't bring your pets indoors, make sure you provide adequate shelter for them outside. "For dog houses, you want to make sure that the floor of the doghouse is off of the ground because the ground can take the heat away from the dog house," says Silvey. "You want the door of the doghouse to be facing away from the wind and a flap on that dog house is preferable."Silvey says if you have an animal living outdoors through the winter months, it's important to remember they are going to need a high quality diet. "Keeping their bodies warm depletes their energy so they do require more food to stay healthy weight and to be able to keep warm," says Silvey. If you see an animal in city limits outside for a long time, contact animal control.

Keep your pets safe on these bitterly cold days

The City of St. Joseph Health Department warns people to be cautious in the below freezing temperatures this weekend. Health Educator Nancy King for the City of St. Joseph Health Department says certain people are at more risk for the cold affecting their health. 

"Those at most risk are people who work outside, people in poor physical condition, elderly, infants, people with chronic health conditions," King tells St. Joseph Post.

King says to wear layers when outdoors in these below freezing temperatures.

"If you have to be outdoors try to do the most activity during the warmest part of the day which is usually 10 a.m. to 3 p.m," says King. "Make sure you're wearing a hat, good coat, warm gloves, waterproof boots with socks, and make sure you have appropriate clothing on."

The National Weather Service predicts the temperatures for tonight to be as low as -2 degrees with a wind chill value between -10 and -15. Saturday night will have a low of around -5 degrees. Sunday will be mostly cloudy all day with a high near 1 degree. Sunday night will have a low of around -11 degrees and a chance of precipitation. Monday we are looking at a high of 2 degrees with a chance of precipitation. Monday night will be low around -11 degrees. 

King says having someone to work with you outside is always a good idea. 

"Using a buddy system is good. If you work outside, have a buddy that you're working with that can kind of touch base and make sure that you are not exhibiting any signs of hypothermia," says King. 

King says to avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine if you're going to be outside in the bitter cold.

"Increase your fluid intake by drinking juice, water, sports drink, warm fluids, but avoid alcohol and caffeine. That can affect the way your body handles cold." 

King says elderly and adults in poor health conditions should stay out of the below freezing temperatures. 

"Try to stay indoors and in a warm area," says King. "If you need help or assistance please don't be afraid to reach out to ask somebody if you are needing help due to cold temperatures."

She says some medications can affect your response to the bitter cold temperatures.

"Talk to your doctor about your medications you may be taking to see how they may impact (you) when you're outside," says King. 

King adds it's important to check on your neighbors who are elderly or are in poor physical condition. 

"The state has a toll-free hotline where you can make a report of senior citizens or adults with disabilities who are in need of assistance due to cold temperatures. That number is 1-800-392-0210," says King. 

King again says to dress appropriately when heading outdoors. 

"When you do go outside make sure that you're dressing appropriately and that you're wearing a nice winter coat, a hat, scarf, gloves or mittens, waterproof warm boots," says King. 

King says it's important to keep an eye on the temperature and the weather to know how to properly respond each day. 

By WHITNEE ICESt. Joseph PostThe City of St. Joseph Health Department warns people to be cautious in the below freezing temperatures this weekend. Health Educator Nancy King for the City of St. Joseph Health Department says certain people are at more risk for the cold affecting their health. "Those at most risk are people who work outside, people in poor physical condition, elderly, infants, people with chronic health conditions," King tells St. Joseph Post.King says to wear layers when outdoors in these below freezing temperatures."If you have to be outdoors try to do the most activity during the warmest part of the day which is usually 10 a.m. to 3 p.m," says King. "Make sure you're wearing a hat, good coat, warm gloves, waterproof boots with socks, and make sure you have appropriate clothing on."The National Weather Service predicts the temperatures for tonight to be as low as -2 degrees with a wind chill value between -10 and -15. Saturday night will have a low of around -5 degrees. Sunday will be mostly cloudy all day with a high near 1 degree. Sunday night will have a low of around -11 degrees and a chance of precipitation. Monday we are looking at a high of 2 degrees with a chance of precipitation. Monday night will be low around -11 degrees. King says having someone to work with you outside is always a good idea. "Using a buddy system is good. If you work outside, have a buddy that you're working with that can kind of touch base and make sure that you are not exhibiting any signs of hypothermia," says King. King says to avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine if you're going to be outside in the bitter cold."Increase your fluid intake by drinking juice, water, sports drink, warm fluids, but avoid alcohol and caffeine. That can affect the way your body handles cold." King says elderly and adults in poor health conditions should stay out of the below freezing temperatures. "Try to stay indoors and in a warm area," says King. "If you need help or assistance please don't be afraid to reach out to ask somebody if you are needing help due to cold temperatures."She says some medications can affect your response to the bitter cold temperatures."Talk to your doctor about your medications you may be taking to see how they may impact (you) when you're outside," says King. King adds it's important to check on your neighbors who are elderly or are in poor physical condition. "The state has a toll-free hotline where you can make a report of senior citizens or adults with disabilities who are in need of assistance due to cold temperatures. That number is 1-800-392-0210," says King. King again says to dress appropriately when heading outdoors. "When you do go outside make sure that you're dressing appropriately and that you're wearing a nice winter coat, a hat, scarf, gloves or mittens, waterproof warm boots," says King. King says it's important to keep an eye on the temperature and the weather to know how to properly respond each day.

St. Joseph Health Department warns about dangers of bitter cold weather

It's been abnormally cold for days across the region, and it may get colder yet.

A Wind Chill Advisory has been posted for all of northwest Missouri, and it'll last until noon Friday.

Wind chill values Friday morning could be as low as 20-below zero. Meteorologist Scott Blair with the National Weather Service in Pleasant Hill says if you must be outside during that time, be sure to dress properly. No exposed skin if possible.

"You can get frost bite on exposed skin in under 30 minutes when you're exposed to these kinds of values," Blair said. "So, it's not something you want to spend much time on. It can become pretty serious pretty quickly."

Lows on Saturday and Sunday night could fall between five and 10 degrees below zero, with 15-below possible overnight Monday.

This is the most recent chapter in what's been a prolonged cold spell across the Central Plains.

Blair says the NWS offices in Kansas City haven't recorded temperatures above freezing since Feb. 6., and temperatures may not get above freezing for another 7-8 days.

"If that holds, that'll be a solid two weeks (below freezing)," Blair said. "At that point, for Kansas City, that would rank as the 15th longest below freezing duration in the 133 years of Kansas City's history."

Highs are expected to rebound to the low 20s by next Thursday and Fridays, with mid-30s possible by next weekend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613079908055.jpeg" alt="Courtesy of NWS Kansas City." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of NWS Kansas City.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostIt's been abnormally cold for days across the region, and it may get colder yet.A Wind Chill Advisory has been posted for all of northwest Missouri, and it'll last until noon Friday.Wind chill values Friday morning could be as low as 20-below zero. Meteorologist Scott Blair with the National Weather Service in Pleasant Hill says if you must be outside during that time, be sure to dress properly. No exposed skin if possible."You can get frost bite on exposed skin in under 30 minutes when you're exposed to these kinds of values," Blair said. "So, it's not something you want to spend much time on. It can become pretty serious pretty quickly."Lows on Saturday and Sunday night could fall between five and 10 degrees below zero, with 15-below possible overnight Monday.This is the most recent chapter in what's been a prolonged cold spell across the Central Plains.Blair says the NWS offices in Kansas City haven't recorded temperatures above freezing since Feb. 6., and temperatures may not get above freezing for another 7-8 days."If that holds, that'll be a solid two weeks (below freezing)," Blair said. "At that point, for Kansas City, that would rank as the 15th longest below freezing duration in the 133 years of Kansas City's history."Highs are expected to rebound to the low 20s by next Thursday and Fridays, with mid-30s possible by next weekend.

Wind Chill Advisory in effect, bitter cold sticking around for a little while yet

The weather is not getting better any time soon.

District Engineer Chris Redline for Missouri Department of Transportation says bitter cold temperatures makes it difficult for MoDOT to clear roads properly. . .

"They're calling for snow Wednesday through Saturday and these temperatures are going to be really low, Redline tells St. Joseph Post. "They get really low towards the weekend to and so it's just gonna make it that much harder for us to remove the snow from the road." 

With below freezing temperatures all week, the MoDOT cautions drivers to watch out for slick roads. 

Redline says the aftermath of our current weather conditions cause salts and products used to thaw roads not to work as well as they normally would. . . 

"The aftermath is very difficult because the temperatures drop so low, our chemicals just don't work very well," says Redline. 

The Missouri Department of Transportation encourages drivers to pack some supplies in their vehicles during these below freezing temperatures. 

Redline says to make sure to have jumper cables in case your car doesn't start or dies. It is good to have other essentials available in your car. 

"Be sure to bring plenty of warm stuff if you have to travel, a little bit of food, a little bit of water," says Redline. 

Redline says to plan your trip if you have to go out and check MoDOT's Travel Information Map.  

By WHITNEE ICESt. Joseph PostThe weather is not getting better any time soon.District Engineer Chris Redline for Missouri Department of Transportation says bitter cold temperatures makes it difficult for MoDOT to clear roads properly. . ."They're calling for snow Wednesday through Saturday and these temperatures are going to be really low, Redline tells St. Joseph Post. "They get really low towards the weekend to and so it's just gonna make it that much harder for us to remove the snow from the road." With below freezing temperatures all week, the MoDOT cautions drivers to watch out for slick roads. Redline says the aftermath of our current weather conditions cause salts and products used to thaw roads not to work as well as they normally would. . . "The aftermath is very difficult because the temperatures drop so low, our chemicals just don't work very well," says Redline. The Missouri Department of Transportation encourages drivers to pack some supplies in their vehicles during these below freezing temperatures. Redline says to make sure to have jumper cables in case your car doesn't start or dies. It is good to have other essentials available in your car. "Be sure to bring plenty of warm stuff if you have to travel, a little bit of food, a little bit of water," says Redline. Redline says to plan your trip if you have to go out and check MoDOT's Travel Information Map.

Bitter cold weather ahead

And, it isn’t going anywhere any time soon.

Meteorologist Dan Holiday with The Storm Report says an arctic
air mass has taken a dive south out of Canada and settled in over the Midwest.

“It just happened that this arctic air mass got dislodged from
Canada. It moved down into the Midwest and eventually sunk further south. A lot
of that is due to the jet stream, which plays into the pattern,” Holiday tells
St. Joseph Post. “And because of that, we need something to move it out and the
problem is there’s nothing to move it back out of where it is now for quite some
time.”

Holiday doesn’t expect much snow to come with the bitter cold
temperatures. The weather forecast does hold out the possibility of snow on
Friday and Saturday. Otherwise, cloudy skies and cold temperatures dominate.

Holiday says the high might not reach the freezing mark until
the 19th or 20th.

“But just the long-range outlook shows that it may be around the
21st of February before we see anything above freezing,” according
to Holiday. “So, this is going to be a long-duration, very cold event.”

Lows are expected to dip below zero beginning on Thursday
night which is forecast at present to have a low of -3 degrees. It could be -5
Friday night with the possibility of the low dipping down to -14 Saturday
night.

Holiday says this arctic blast from Canada, which is bringing
these bitter cold temperatures, will remain until something pushes it out, probably
in about two weeks.

“So, there will be a system that will likely come in and help
sort of lift this on up to the north again, I would say by February 21st,
22nd and we will see temperatures back in the low to mid-30s, but
even then, they’re still going to be running a little below normal for this time
of year.”

These temperatures are well below normal for this time of year
as much as 30 to 35 degrees below normal. Holiday says, typically, the high
temperature this time of year is around 40 degrees.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostBitter cold has moved into our area.And, it isn’t going anywhere any time soon.Meteorologist Dan Holiday with The Storm Report says an arctic
air mass has taken a dive south out of Canada and settled in over the Midwest.“It just happened that this arctic air mass got dislodged from
Canada. It moved down into the Midwest and eventually sunk further south. A lot
of that is due to the jet stream, which plays into the pattern,” Holiday tells
St. Joseph Post. “And because of that, we need something to move it out and the
problem is there’s nothing to move it back out of where it is now for quite some
time.”Holiday doesn’t expect much snow to come with the bitter cold
temperatures. The weather forecast does hold out the possibility of snow on
Friday and Saturday. Otherwise, cloudy skies and cold temperatures dominate.Holiday says the high might not reach the freezing mark until
the 19th or 20th.“But just the long-range outlook shows that it may be around the
21st of February before we see anything above freezing,” according
to Holiday. “So, this is going to be a long-duration, very cold event.”Lows are expected to dip below zero beginning on Thursday
night which is forecast at present to have a low of -3 degrees. It could be -5
Friday night with the possibility of the low dipping down to -14 Saturday
night.Holiday says this arctic blast from Canada, which is bringing
these bitter cold temperatures, will remain until something pushes it out, probably
in about two weeks.“So, there will be a system that will likely come in and help
sort of lift this on up to the north again, I would say by February 21st,
22nd and we will see temperatures back in the low to mid-30s, but
even then, they’re still going to be running a little below normal for this time
of year.”These temperatures are well below normal for this time of year
as much as 30 to 35 degrees below normal. Holiday says, typically, the high
temperature this time of year is around 40 degrees.

Bitter cold moves in; won't move out for a couple of weeks

This time of year, can turn dangerous…and turn dangerous quickly…if safety is not taken into account.  

The American Red Cross says taking time to properly prepare can keep you safe on these bitterly cold winter days.   

Red Cross spokesperson Angie Springs says different safety measures are needed if you are going to use additional forms of heat to warm your home. . .

“I want to remind people of that three feet rule with a space heater. Make sure that there is nothing with in a three feet circumference around that. If their not in their room with the space heater, make sure you unplug it. Turn it off and unplug it when you’re not in that room. We also want to make sure people are safe if they are also burning wood in the fire place. Again, never leave it unattended. Make sure you have a safety screen in front of it, again to help from those embers from coming out.”  

Springs says it’s important to stay safe in your home, but also important to make sure your neighbors are safe as well. . .

“Make sure as the temperatures are dropping and it gets cold out, that you’re checking on those  neighbors especially the elderly, those perhaps living alone, people perhaps with disabilities, and maybe even those with children. That, again, as we see that school’s been out, we want to make sure that just everyone is staying safe. Kids are home for longer hours when school is canceled or maybe they’re doing remote learning and it’s, again just a time to check on our neighbors, make sure that everyone is safe.” 

It’s important to make sure pets have what they need to stay warm. . .

“We also want to make sure that our four legged friends are also safe, so bring your pets indoors. If they can’t come inside, make sure that they have a warm shelter outside. Make sure that they have access to fresh water so that they're able to get something to drink."

Spring says to take safety precautions when out on the roads as well. . .

"Make sure that you have a disaster supplies kit in your car in the event that you were to get stuck along side the road. Make sure also that you have a blanket in your car. Make sure you have an ice scraper. That's something that's very important right now and also make sure that you're keeping your electronic devices charged, so that away when you leave home, even though most of us have the ability to charge them in our car, make sure that it's fully charged when you leave incase you do need to call somebody to come assist you." 

Spring suggests downloading the Red Cross emergency App. . .

"Another great tool for people to have right now is the American Red Cross Emergency App. This is free to download and it is a great way for you to keep on track with what is going on around the nation with emergencies. It will give you winter weather notifications that come through. You can also monitor areas outside of where you live, so lets say you have family that live in a different part of the state and you want to make sure they are staying safe too, you can actually monitor their zip code too. It's free and it could potentially save your life."

For more information on staying safe during the winter months, visit The American Red Cross website; <a href="https://www.redcross.org/">redcross.org. </a>

By WHITNEE ICE St. Joseph Post This time of year, can turn dangerous…and turn dangerous quickly…if safety is not taken into account. The American Red Cross says taking time to properly prepare can keep you safe on these bitterly cold winter days. Red Cross spokesperson Angie Springs says different safety measures are needed if you are going to use additional forms of heat to warm your home. . .“I want to remind people of that three feet rule with a space heater. Make sure that there is nothing with in a three feet circumference around that. If their not in their room with the space heater, make sure you unplug it. Turn it off and unplug it when you’re not in that room. We also want to make sure people are safe if they are also burning wood in the fire place. Again, never leave it unattended. Make sure you have a safety screen in front of it, again to help from those embers from coming out.” Springs says it’s important to stay safe in your home, but also important to make sure your neighbors are safe as well. . .“Make sure as the temperatures are dropping and it gets cold out, that you’re checking on those neighbors especially the elderly, those perhaps living alone, people perhaps with disabilities, and maybe even those with children. That, again, as we see that school’s been out, we want to make sure that just everyone is staying safe. Kids are home for longer hours when school is canceled or maybe they’re doing remote learning and it’s, again just a time to check on our neighbors, make sure that everyone is safe.” It’s important to make sure pets have what they need to stay warm. . .“We also want to make sure that our four legged friends are also safe, so bring your pets indoors. If they can’t come inside, make sure that they have a warm shelter outside. Make sure that they have access to fresh water so that they're able to get something to drink."Spring says to take safety precautions when out on the roads as well. . ."Make sure that you have a disaster supplies kit in your car in the event that you were to get stuck along side the road. Make sure also that you have a blanket in your car. Make sure you have an ice scraper. That's something that's very important right now and also make sure that you're keeping your electronic devices charged, so that away when you leave home, even though most of us have the ability to charge them in our car, make sure that it's fully charged when you leave incase you do need to call somebody to come assist you." Spring suggests downloading the Red Cross emergency App. . ."Another great tool for people to have right now is the American Red Cross Emergency App. This is free to download and it is a great way for you to keep on track with what is going on around the nation with emergencies. It will give you winter weather notifications that come through. You can also monitor areas outside of where you live, so lets say you have family that live in a different part of the state and you want to make sure they are staying safe too, you can actually monitor their zip code too. It's free and it could potentially save your life."For more information on staying safe during the winter months, visit The American Red Cross website; <a href="https://www.redcross.org/">redcross.org. </a>

Winter weather is dangerous if safety precautions aren't taken

Another round of accumulating snow is impacting the region Saturday.

Winter Weather Advisories have been posted for large swaths of northwest Missouri, eastern Kansas, southeast Nebraska and southern Iowa.

St. Joseph and the surrounding area are expected to receive 3-5 inches of snow by Saturday evening, with 1-3 inches expected near Kansas City.

Many area basketball games and activities are canceled Saturday, including the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame Basketball Classic at Benton High School in St. Joseph. The event might be made up on Feb. 20.

Chances for light snow will linger into Sunday and early Monday, but no significant, additional accumulation is expected.

This latest system brings with it the first real cold snap of the winter. 

Highs through this coming Friday aren't expected to make it out of the teens, while wind chill values during this time could be as low as 10-15 below.

"This will be the first real Arctic blast of the winter so far," said National Weather Service meteorologist Emily Klaus, who works in the Pleasant Hill office. "It's not just going to last a day or two. These cold temperatures will stick around for a week or so."

The forecasted cold snap has resulted in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/35d6c7a6-5f88-4afc-bc72-68dace094504">increasing Gavins Point Dam releases</a> from 17,000 to 19,000 cubic feet per second Friday in order to prevent ice jams along the lower Missouri River basin.

“We expect ice forming on the tributaries will reduce inflows into the lower Missouri River. By slightly increasing releases from Gavins Point Dam, we will minimize potentially lower river stages caused by lower inflows and reduce the chance of ice jams forming in the Missouri River,” said John Remus, chief the USACE’s Missouri River Basin Water Management Division.

You can follow St. Joseph Post on Twitter @StJosephPost.

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">More snow forecasted for NW Missouri today. We should be well versed in our winter driving practices by now. LETS REVIEW!! Slow down, increase following distances and always buckle up. <a href="https://t.co/EebgO4Jm1E">pic.twitter.com/EebgO4Jm1E</a>&mdash; MSHP Troop H (@MSHPTrooperH) <a href="https://twitter.com/MSHPTrooperH/status/1358057215635181571?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostAnother round of accumulating snow is impacting the region Saturday.Winter Weather Advisories have been posted for large swaths of northwest Missouri, eastern Kansas, southeast Nebraska and southern Iowa.St. Joseph and the surrounding area are expected to receive 3-5 inches of snow by Saturday evening, with 1-3 inches expected near Kansas City.Many area basketball games and activities are canceled Saturday, including the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame Basketball Classic at Benton High School in St. Joseph. The event might be made up on Feb. 20.Chances for light snow will linger into Sunday and early Monday, but no significant, additional accumulation is expected.This latest system brings with it the first real cold snap of the winter. Highs through this coming Friday aren't expected to make it out of the teens, while wind chill values during this time could be as low as 10-15 below."This will be the first real Arctic blast of the winter so far," said National Weather Service meteorologist Emily Klaus, who works in the Pleasant Hill office. "It's not just going to last a day or two. These cold temperatures will stick around for a week or so."The forecasted cold snap has resulted in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/35d6c7a6-5f88-4afc-bc72-68dace094504">increasing Gavins Point Dam releases</a> from 17,000 to 19,000 cubic feet per second Friday in order to prevent ice jams along the lower Missouri River basin.“We expect ice forming on the tributaries will reduce inflows into the lower Missouri River. By slightly increasing releases from Gavins Point Dam, we will minimize potentially lower river stages caused by lower inflows and reduce the chance of ice jams forming in the Missouri River,” said John Remus, chief the USACE’s Missouri River Basin Water Management Division.You can follow St. Joseph Post on Twitter @StJosephPost.

Snow on Saturday, bitterly cold temperatures to linger into next week

The 2021 runoff forecast for the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City continues to be below average.&nbsp;

Doug Kluck, the NOAA Regional Climate Services Director for the Central Region, says plains and mountain snowpack is lagging behind seasonal averages, and soil moisture continues to be much drier-than-normal.

"Almost the entire Missouri River basin has some form of drought indicated across it," he said.

January 2021 runoff in the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City was 1.1 million acre-feet,&nbsp; or 141% of average. The above-average runoff was mainly due to above-normal temperatures melting plains snowpack and inhibiting river ice formation.

The 2021 calendar year runoff forecast above Sioux City is 89% of average. This forecast is based on soil moisture conditions, plains and mountain snowpack, and long-term precipitation and temperature outlooks.

Kevin Grode, the Reservoir Regulation Team Lead for the Missouri River Basin Water Management, says below-average runoff is expected through a good portion of the summer as well.

"We are forecasting below average runoff during each month of the March through July period," Grode said. "That period is considered the high runoff portion of the year."

Gavins Point Dam releases will be maintained at the winter release rate of 17,000 cubic feet per second, but will be adjusted if needed in response to ice formation on the Missouri River below the Dam.

Kevin Lau with the National Weather Service's Missouri River Basin Forecast Center, says ice jams are still a possibility, and spring thunderstorms could also cause flooding in some spots.

"Ice jam flooding remains a possibility throughout the winter," Lau said. "As we near the end of April, we have to be thinking about thunderstorm activity, which is the driver of springtime flooding."

Current studies indicate that flow support for Missouri River navigation will be at full service level for the first half of the 2021 season, which starts April 1 at the mouth in St. Louis.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583233334844.jpeg" alt="Gavins Point Dam releases will be maintained at the winter release rate of 17,000 cubic feet per second, but will be adjusted if needed in response to ice formation on the Missouri River below the Dam." />
 <figcaption>Gavins Point Dam releases will be maintained at the winter release rate of 17,000 cubic feet per second, but will be adjusted if needed in response to ice formation on the Missouri River below the Dam.</figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe 2021 runoff forecast for the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City continues to be below average.&nbsp;Doug Kluck, the NOAA Regional Climate Services Director for the Central Region, says plains and mountain snowpack is lagging behind seasonal averages, and soil moisture continues to be much drier-than-normal."Almost the entire Missouri River basin has some form of drought indicated across it," he said.January 2021 runoff in the Missouri River Basin above Sioux City was 1.1 million acre-feet,&nbsp; or 141% of average. The above-average runoff was mainly due to above-normal temperatures melting plains snowpack and inhibiting river ice formation.The 2021 calendar year runoff forecast above Sioux City is 89% of average. This forecast is based on soil moisture conditions, plains and mountain snowpack, and long-term precipitation and temperature outlooks.Kevin Grode, the Reservoir Regulation Team Lead for the Missouri River Basin Water Management, says below-average runoff is expected through a good portion of the summer as well."We are forecasting below average runoff during each month of the March through July period," Grode said. "That period is considered the high runoff portion of the year."Gavins Point Dam releases will be maintained at the winter release rate of 17,000 cubic feet per second, but will be adjusted if needed in response to ice formation on the Missouri River below the Dam.Kevin Lau with the National Weather Service's Missouri River Basin Forecast Center, says ice jams are still a possibility, and spring thunderstorms could also cause flooding in some spots."Ice jam flooding remains a possibility throughout the winter," Lau said. "As we near the end of April, we have to be thinking about thunderstorm activity, which is the driver of springtime flooding."Current studies indicate that flow support for Missouri River navigation will be at full service level for the first half of the 2021 season, which starts April 1 at the mouth in St. Louis.You can follow St. Joseph Post on Twitter @StJosephPost.

Below average runoff expected in 2021 for upper Missouri River Basin

A
winter weather advisory remains in effect in this region until 9 o’clock this
morning.

The
National Weather Service issued the advisory for all of northeastern Kansas,
northwestern Missouri as well as in the southeastern portion of Nebraska and
southwestern Iowa. The advisory includes the cities of Elwood, Wathena, Troy, Atchison,
and Leavenworth…among others…in Kansas. And, St. Joseph, Maryville, Cameron,
Plattsburg, and others in Missouri.

The
Weather Service is only calling for one to two inches of snow, though reports
indicate some areas already have that. Slow down and be careful on the morning
commute.

The forecast for the region calls for snow to end after this morning with a high of 25. Cold this evening with a low of 16 under mostly cloudy skies. Sunny tomorrow with a high of 34.

The
St. Joseph School District has cancelled in-person classes, switching to remote
learning.

Savannah
R-3 has cancelled in-person classes, using the AMI plan for continued learning
from home today.

Click <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/569e31a0-9b55-4bc5-a4b4-3bda13d69dac">here</a> for a full list of closings.

For road conditions, click <a href="https://traveler.modot.org/map/index.html">here</a> for the MoDOT Traveler Information Map.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA
winter weather advisory remains in effect in this region until 9 o’clock this
morning.The
National Weather Service issued the advisory for all of northeastern Kansas,
northwestern Missouri as well as in the southeastern portion of Nebraska and
southwestern Iowa. The advisory includes the cities of Elwood, Wathena, Troy, Atchison,
and Leavenworth…among others…in Kansas. And, St. Joseph, Maryville, Cameron,
Plattsburg, and others in Missouri.The
Weather Service is only calling for one to two inches of snow, though reports
indicate some areas already have that. Slow down and be careful on the morning
commute.The forecast for the region calls for snow to end after this morning with a high of 25. Cold this evening with a low of 16 under mostly cloudy skies. Sunny tomorrow with a high of 34.The
St. Joseph School District has cancelled in-person classes, switching to remote
learning.Savannah
R-3 has cancelled in-person classes, using the AMI plan for continued learning
from home today.Click <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/569e31a0-9b55-4bc5-a4b4-3bda13d69dac">here</a> for a full list of closings.For road conditions, click <a href="https://traveler.modot.org/map/index.html">here</a> for the MoDOT Traveler Information Map.

Snow returns to area, winter weather advisory issued, schools closing

More snow is headed for northwest Missouri late tonight and early tomorrow. 

National Weather Service Meteorologist Pamela Pietrycha with the Pleasant Hill office says another quick moving system will impact the area tonight and into tomorrow morning. 

"We are a little bit cooler then we have been the last several days," says Pietrycha. "Temperatures tonight will drop into the teens and upper twenties, so any leftover snow from the previous system that's still on the road. This will accumulate on top of it. Roads will still be relatively slick tomorrow morning."

A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for most of the area from 9 p.m. tonight through 6 a.m. Wednesday. Pietrycha warns drivers to be mindful of slick roads during the morning commute. St. Joseph and the surrounding area could see around 1-3 inches of additional snow. Winter weather has already forced school closures yesterday and today.

Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop H has responded to 108 calls for service, 53 stranded motorists, 25 non-injury traffic crashes, one injury traffic accident, and there have not been any fatalities since the snow began yesterday. 

By WHITNEE ICE St. Joseph PostMore snow is headed for northwest Missouri late tonight and early tomorrow. National Weather Service Meteorologist Pamela Pietrycha with the Pleasant Hill office says another quick moving system will impact the area tonight and into tomorrow morning. "We are a little bit cooler then we have been the last several days," says Pietrycha. "Temperatures tonight will drop into the teens and upper twenties, so any leftover snow from the previous system that's still on the road. This will accumulate on top of it. Roads will still be relatively slick tomorrow morning."A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for most of the area from 9 p.m. tonight through 6 a.m. Wednesday. Pietrycha warns drivers to be mindful of slick roads during the morning commute. St. Joseph and the surrounding area could see around 1-3 inches of additional snow. Winter weather has already forced school closures yesterday and today.Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop H has responded to 108 calls for service, 53 stranded motorists, 25 non-injury traffic crashes, one injury traffic accident, and there have not been any fatalities since the snow began yesterday.

Another round of snow headed for northwest Missouri Tuesday night, early Wednesday

After a bout of light freezing rain in the morning hours, portions of northwest Missouri could see periods of heavy, wet snow on Monday afternoon and evening.

Atchison County, KS, along with Buchanan, DeKalb, Daviess, Grundy and Livingston counties are under a Winter Weather Advisory until 6 a.m. Tuesday, while points to the north, including Savannah, Maryville, Rockport and Grant City, are in a Winter Storm Warning until 6 a.m. Tuesday.

National Weather Service meteorologist Spencer Mell, who works in the Pleasant Hill office, says the freezing rain should transition to all snow by early Monday afternoon with the St. Joseph area receiving 2-4 inches of snow and higher amounts to the north.

"The bulk of the heavy snow should be over by midnight," Mell said. "We will continue to see light snow through the overnight hours up until the morning rush Tuesday."

Mell says snow rates could be as heavy as 1-2 inches per hour, especially north of St. Joseph. Areas like Maryville and Falls City, NE could see 6-8" of snow, with up to a foot possible in the Lincoln and Omaha areas.

In addition, winds will pick up out of the northeast between 15-25 mph, which could further reduce visibility, especially in open areas.

"With that, the conditions will deteriorate fairly quickly," Mell said. "So, if anyone is traveling out there, use extreme caution because the conditions could deteriorate quickly."

Chris Redline, the Chief Engineer for the Missouri Department of Transportation's Northwest Division, says crews will stay out until roads are safe and passable, but he urges caution especially Monday afternoon and evening.

"We're definitely prepared to go after it, but if you don't have to go out, please stay home," Redline urged. "If you're at work, try and get home early. Check our<a href="http://traveler.modot.org/map/index.html"> traveler information map</a>. If you do come up on our trucks, give them plenty of room to work. And with this freezing rain, you need to be extra careful."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609268876924.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostAfter a bout of light freezing rain in the morning hours, portions of northwest Missouri could see periods of heavy, wet snow on Monday afternoon and evening.Atchison County, KS, along with Buchanan, DeKalb, Daviess, Grundy and Livingston counties are under a Winter Weather Advisory until 6 a.m. Tuesday, while points to the north, including Savannah, Maryville, Rockport and Grant City, are in a Winter Storm Warning until 6 a.m. Tuesday.National Weather Service meteorologist Spencer Mell, who works in the Pleasant Hill office, says the freezing rain should transition to all snow by early Monday afternoon with the St. Joseph area receiving 2-4 inches of snow and higher amounts to the north."The bulk of the heavy snow should be over by midnight," Mell said. "We will continue to see light snow through the overnight hours up until the morning rush Tuesday."Mell says snow rates could be as heavy as 1-2 inches per hour, especially north of St. Joseph. Areas like Maryville and Falls City, NE could see 6-8" of snow, with up to a foot possible in the Lincoln and Omaha areas.In addition, winds will pick up out of the northeast between 15-25 mph, which could further reduce visibility, especially in open areas."With that, the conditions will deteriorate fairly quickly," Mell said. "So, if anyone is traveling out there, use extreme caution because the conditions could deteriorate quickly."Chris Redline, the Chief Engineer for the Missouri Department of Transportation's Northwest Division, says crews will stay out until roads are safe and passable, but he urges caution especially Monday afternoon and evening."We're definitely prepared to go after it, but if you don't have to go out, please stay home," Redline urged. "If you're at work, try and get home early. Check our<a href="http://traveler.modot.org/map/index.html"> traveler information map</a>. If you do come up on our trucks, give them plenty of room to work. And with this freezing rain, you need to be extra careful."<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A winter storm remains on track to impact portions of northern Missouri today, with moderate to heavy snow north of a line from St Joseph to Kirksville. South of that line, there will be a sharp drop off in snow totals as rain is primarily expected during the day. <a href="https://t.co/Mfpgrzpc53">pic.twitter.com/Mfpgrzpc53</a>&mdash; NWS Kansas City (@NWSKansasCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSKansasCity/status/1353678945216909315?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2021</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Conditions could 'deteriorate quickly' in northwest Missouri Monday afternoon

Strong winds continues gust across a large portion of the Central Plains, with snow now mixing in.

This has prompted Blizzard Warnings for portions of northwest Missouri, including Maryville and Rock Port, until Friday evening. The rest of northwest Missouri and northeast Kansas are in a Winter Weather Advisory until 6 p.m. Friday.&nbsp;

National Weather Service meteorologist Taylor Nicolaisen says the forecast has changed quickly over the last couple of days.

"It's been this ramp-up over the last 36 hours or so and it's getting uglier," Nicolaisen said. "We're expecting blizzard conditions, based on the fact the winds will be so strong. Because of that, the visibility is going to be really reduced.

"We don't like to use the term 'blizzard conditions' all that much, but that's what we're expecting. White-out conditions at times and visibility impacted for at least a few hours."

Nicolaisen, who works out of the NWS office in Omaha/Valley, NE, says&nbsp; the worst impacts occurred during the Friday morning commute, with blizzard conditions occurring off and on throughout the day.

Snow totals across the northwest Missouri region are expected to be in the 2-4 inch range.

Snow is expected to taper off and move out of the area by Friday evening, but travel during the day Friday is highly discouraged.

"Boy, it doesn't take much snow to fall in a 50 mph wind gust to white things out in a hurry and make you wish that you were home," Nicolaisen said.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostStrong winds continues gust across a large portion of the Central Plains, with snow now mixing in.This has prompted Blizzard Warnings for portions of northwest Missouri, including Maryville and Rock Port, until Friday evening. The rest of northwest Missouri and northeast Kansas are in a Winter Weather Advisory until 6 p.m. Friday.&nbsp;National Weather Service meteorologist Taylor Nicolaisen says the forecast has changed quickly over the last couple of days."It's been this ramp-up over the last 36 hours or so and it's getting uglier," Nicolaisen said. "We're expecting blizzard conditions, based on the fact the winds will be so strong. Because of that, the visibility is going to be really reduced."We don't like to use the term 'blizzard conditions' all that much, but that's what we're expecting. White-out conditions at times and visibility impacted for at least a few hours."Nicolaisen, who works out of the NWS office in Omaha/Valley, NE, says&nbsp; the worst impacts occurred during the Friday morning commute, with blizzard conditions occurring off and on throughout the day.Snow totals across the northwest Missouri region are expected to be in the 2-4 inch range.Snow is expected to taper off and move out of the area by Friday evening, but travel during the day Friday is highly discouraged."Boy, it doesn't take much snow to fall in a 50 mph wind gust to white things out in a hurry and make you wish that you were home," Nicolaisen said.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">The strong winds along with snow will make travel near impossible tomorrow across NE Kansas into NW Missouri. Do not travel tomorrow unless you have to. <a href="https://t.co/6jQ6pbbjUw">pic.twitter.com/6jQ6pbbjUw</a>&mdash; NWS Kansas City (@NWSKansasCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSKansasCity/status/1349777680812572672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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</div><div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">Blizzard conditions are forecast to develop after midnight tonight for parts of eastern Nebraska, much of Iowa, and portions of Missouri, South Dakota and Minnesota. <a href="https://t.co/9boMcMXVtc">https://t.co/9boMcMXVtc</a>&mdash; NWS Omaha (@NWSOmaha) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSOmaha/status/1349772003863977985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>You can follow St. Joseph Post on Twitter @StJosephPost.

Northwest Missouri, southern Iowa battling snow, high winds Friday

Despite a pair of winter storms in the final week of 2020, forecasters still predict a drier and warmer than normal weather pattern in early 2021.

A La Niña event is likely to influence weather conditions across the globe this winter. La Niña, the cooling of sea-surface temperatures in the western Pacific, is typically associated with warmer-than-average conditions for parts of the U.S. in January and February, especially in the Midwest and Southern regions this year.

National Weather Service meteorologist Brian Barjenbruch&nbsp; says it’s also been drier than normal over the last few months.

"We've definitely had some periods of time this past fall that have been well above normal (temperature wise)," Barjenbruch said. "We had a few cooler days, but for the most part, that drought has held on or even intensified almost across the entire region over the last 3-5 months."

The latest U.S. drought monitor put out by the University of Nebraska shows most of eastern Kansas and northwest Missouri in a moderate drought.

Barjenbruch&nbsp; says even with a mild and dry long-term forecast, more winter storms are still certainly possible.

"That tends to be the trend we see with (La Niñas)," Barjenbruch said. "That's not to say we won't have some snows, or even some heavy snows. But, the general pattern does favor a little bit warmer and a little bit drier than normal."

Temperatures across the Midwest and Central Plains are expected to be “much above average” through March, according to Weather.com.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostDespite a pair of winter storms in the final week of 2020, forecasters still predict a drier and warmer than normal weather pattern in early 2021.A La Niña event is likely to influence weather conditions across the globe this winter. La Niña, the cooling of sea-surface temperatures in the western Pacific, is typically associated with warmer-than-average conditions for parts of the U.S. in January and February, especially in the Midwest and Southern regions this year.National Weather Service meteorologist Brian Barjenbruch&nbsp; says it’s also been drier than normal over the last few months."We've definitely had some periods of time this past fall that have been well above normal (temperature wise)," Barjenbruch said. "We had a few cooler days, but for the most part, that drought has held on or even intensified almost across the entire region over the last 3-5 months."The latest U.S. drought monitor put out by the University of Nebraska shows most of eastern Kansas and northwest Missouri in a moderate drought.Barjenbruch&nbsp; says even with a mild and dry long-term forecast, more winter storms are still certainly possible."That tends to be the trend we see with (La Niñas)," Barjenbruch said. "That's not to say we won't have some snows, or even some heavy snows. But, the general pattern does favor a little bit warmer and a little bit drier than normal."Temperatures across the Midwest and Central Plains are expected to be “much above average” through March, according to Weather.com.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609438189640.jpeg" alt="Courtesy Weather.com." />
 <figcaption>Courtesy Weather.com.</figcaption>
 </figure>

Warmer, drier than normal winter expected for Midwest, Southern regions

Forecasters are watching a
second storm system that could bring a wintry mix of precipitation to eastern
Kansas and northwest Missouri over the New Year’s holiday.

A Winter Weather Advisory is in
effect for most of the region from midnight tonight until 6 p.m. Friday, while areas to the south and east of St. Joseph/Kansas City are under a Winter Storm Warning.

The
exact timing and track of the storm is somewhat uncertain, but meteorologist
Brandon Drake with the National Weather Service office in Topeka says areas to the
north of Kansas City are more likely to see snow instead of ice.

"Assuming that it's going to be what we're looking at (Wednesday), you can expect the area of northern Missouri back through Topeka and Wichita to see more snow rather than ice," Drake said.

Drake says the area could see 1-3 inches of snow with locally higher amounts possible. Up to 0.2" of ice accumulation is also possible.

This storm also comes during a normally busy travel time on New Year’s Eve.&nbsp; Regardless of what day it is, Drake says the proper
precautions do not change.

"Because it's a holiday, it's always significant," Drake pointed out. "Even if we were looking at an inch of snow, it's something that's going to get highlighted more than it normally would most likely just because of the timing. Regardless, what people need to do stays the same."

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostForecasters are watching a
second storm system that could bring a wintry mix of precipitation to eastern
Kansas and northwest Missouri over the New Year’s holiday.A Winter Weather Advisory is in
effect for most of the region from midnight tonight until 6 p.m. Friday, while areas to the south and east of St. Joseph/Kansas City are under a Winter Storm Warning.The
exact timing and track of the storm is somewhat uncertain, but meteorologist
Brandon Drake with the National Weather Service office in Topeka says areas to the
north of Kansas City are more likely to see snow instead of ice."Assuming that it's going to be what we're looking at (Wednesday), you can expect the area of northern Missouri back through Topeka and Wichita to see more snow rather than ice," Drake said.Drake says the area could see 1-3 inches of snow with locally higher amounts possible. Up to 0.2" of ice accumulation is also possible.This storm also comes during a normally busy travel time on New Year’s Eve.&nbsp; Regardless of what day it is, Drake says the proper
precautions do not change."Because it's a holiday, it's always significant," Drake pointed out. "Even if we were looking at an inch of snow, it's something that's going to get highlighted more than it normally would most likely just because of the timing. Regardless, what people need to do stays the same."<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A winter storm will impact the region Thursday night through Friday. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/kswx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#kswx</a> <a href="https://t.co/1EecrWxEA9">pic.twitter.com/1EecrWxEA9</a>&mdash; NWS Topeka (@NWSTopeka) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSTopeka/status/1344404783143141376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

Forecasters eyeing New Year's winter storm that could impact Missouri, Kansas

As city crews in St. Joseph continue to clean up from Tuesday’s winter storm, they’re also looking toward another impending system set to impact the area Thursday night into Friday.

St. Joseph and a large portion of eastern Kansas and western Missouri are under a Winter Storm Watch from Thursday night through Friday afternoon.

This comes as St. Joseph crews cleared more than 150 tree limbs that were obstructing traffic and power lines around town after Tuesday night’s storm <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/ad81b1d1-b5f5-4d06-ba82-2c84ee3384e8">left thousands without power.</a>

City communications manager Mary Robertson says there’s still a few leftover slick spots from Tuesday’s event.

"Supervisors are out checking bridges and overpasses," she said. "Those areas are still being monitored."

This next system could also bring another wintry mix, but Robertson says, like many forecasters, that the level of uncertainty with this next storm makes it hard to predict.

"This impending storm could take several different directions," Robertson said. "It could be a combination of snow and ice or one or the other. We do encourage folks that if they do not have to get out that they absolutely stay at home."

St. Joseph and the surrounding area could see 1-3 inches of snow by late Friday, along with an additional three-tenths of an inch of ice.&nbsp;Robertson says city crews plan to use the same salt brine/beet juice pre-treatment mixture on the roads that they used<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/14477dd9-73dd-4251-b50d-9ff64f73b8ea"> ahead of Tuesday’s storm</a>.

"That pre-treatment was very effective," Robertson stated. "The crews were able to get all of the streets and it helps to expedite the melting of the snow."

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostAs city crews in St. Joseph continue to clean up from Tuesday’s winter storm, they’re also looking toward another impending system set to impact the area Thursday night into Friday.St. Joseph and a large portion of eastern Kansas and western Missouri are under a Winter Storm Watch from Thursday night through Friday afternoon.This comes as St. Joseph crews cleared more than 150 tree limbs that were obstructing traffic and power lines around town after Tuesday night’s storm <a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/ad81b1d1-b5f5-4d06-ba82-2c84ee3384e8">left thousands without power.</a>City communications manager Mary Robertson says there’s still a few leftover slick spots from Tuesday’s event."Supervisors are out checking bridges and overpasses," she said. "Those areas are still being monitored."This next system could also bring another wintry mix, but Robertson says, like many forecasters, that the level of uncertainty with this next storm makes it hard to predict."This impending storm could take several different directions," Robertson said. "It could be a combination of snow and ice or one or the other. We do encourage folks that if they do not have to get out that they absolutely stay at home."St. Joseph and the surrounding area could see 1-3 inches of snow by late Friday, along with an additional three-tenths of an inch of ice.&nbsp;Robertson says city crews plan to use the same salt brine/beet juice pre-treatment mixture on the roads that they used<a href="https://stjosephpost.com/posts/14477dd9-73dd-4251-b50d-9ff64f73b8ea"> ahead of Tuesday’s storm</a>."That pre-treatment was very effective," Robertson stated. "The crews were able to get all of the streets and it helps to expedite the melting of the snow."<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">Chilly but precipitation-free conditions are in store for today through tomorrow afternoon, but another winter storm takes aim at the region late Thursday into Friday. This will likely impact any New Year&#39;s Eve plans/festivities, so stay tuned to the forecast! <a href="https://t.co/1K8cHMNoQp">pic.twitter.com/1K8cHMNoQp</a>&mdash; NWS Kansas City (@NWSKansasCity) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSKansasCity/status/1344261905293082624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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St. Joseph city crews prepare for round two of winter weather this week

St. Joseph crews acted quickly to treat busy streets and roads Monday in preparation for Tuesday's winter storm.

St. Joseph city street crews spent the day Monday pre-treating streets with a salt brine/beet juice mixture. St. Joseph Streets and Infrastructure supervisor Keven Schneider said Tuesday that Emergency Snow Routes were in good condition for the morning commute.

"We came in (Monday) and pre-treated emergency and secondary routes with the salt brine and sugar beet molasses mix," Schneider said. "It really helped in the morning. We've been spot checking the routes for areas that might slick up a little bit, but that pre-treatment really helped." As the day and the weather progresses Tuesday, crews will be monitoring conditions and responding accordingly. Schneider said crews have already started plowing and treating residential streets.

Buchanan County and areas to the north and west are under a Winter Storm Warning until 6 a.m. Wednesday. The St. Joseph area could see 2-4 inches of snow and up to a half-inch of ice accumulation.&nbsp;

Precipitation is expected to transition to all rain by late Tuesday afternoon, which Schneider said will help a great deal with road conditions.

"The rain will melt everything and raise the pavement temperature a little quicker than normal," Schneider said. "It looks like, temperature wise, we're going to be okay until 3-4 a.m. (Wednesday)."

Schneider said crews will be on stand-by early Wednesday to treat any roads that refreeze.

With this being the first significant winter storm of the season, Schneider said that St. Joseph crews were well prepared.

"All of the equipment was ready to go all weekend just in case," Schneider said. "We were well prepared for this."

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph crews acted quickly to treat busy streets and roads Monday in preparation for Tuesday's winter storm.St. Joseph city street crews spent the day Monday pre-treating streets with a salt brine/beet juice mixture. St. Joseph Streets and Infrastructure supervisor Keven Schneider said Tuesday that Emergency Snow Routes were in good condition for the morning commute."We came in (Monday) and pre-treated emergency and secondary routes with the salt brine and sugar beet molasses mix," Schneider said. "It really helped in the morning. We've been spot checking the routes for areas that might slick up a little bit, but that pre-treatment really helped." As the day and the weather progresses Tuesday, crews will be monitoring conditions and responding accordingly. Schneider said crews have already started plowing and treating residential streets.Buchanan County and areas to the north and west are under a Winter Storm Warning until 6 a.m. Wednesday. The St. Joseph area could see 2-4 inches of snow and up to a half-inch of ice accumulation.&nbsp;Precipitation is expected to transition to all rain by late Tuesday afternoon, which Schneider said will help a great deal with road conditions."The rain will melt everything and raise the pavement temperature a little quicker than normal," Schneider said. "It looks like, temperature wise, we're going to be okay until 3-4 a.m. (Wednesday)."Schneider said crews will be on stand-by early Wednesday to treat any roads that refreeze.With this being the first significant winter storm of the season, Schneider said that St. Joseph crews were well prepared."All of the equipment was ready to go all weekend just in case," Schneider said. "We were well prepared for this."<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck">Street crews spent the day yesterday pre-treating streets with a salt brine/beet juice mixture, and thanks to that effort, the Emergency Snow Routes were in good condition for the morning commute...<a href="https://t.co/fEzZcz1E6e">https://t.co/fEzZcz1E6e</a> <a href="https://t.co/bNyVFTbF6l">pic.twitter.com/bNyVFTbF6l</a>&mdash; City of St. Joseph (@citystjoemo) <a href="https://twitter.com/citystjoemo/status/1343941062725939208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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St. Joseph street crews provide update on road treatment Tuesday

A very cold morning to start out the day with temperatures in the single digits and wind chill values into the negative values. We will quickly heat up into the 20s and 30s by the afternoon and will even go above freezing south of the Missouri River. A long duration winter storm system will approach the area tonight with snow starting in eastern KS and into western MO by midnight. This snow will move east over the entire area with a switch to a rain and snow mix in the afternoon Wednesday for all but northern Missouri. This rain and snow mix will likely last through Thursday late morning before turning to all rain until sunset. After sunset on Thursday all precipitation will quickly turn to snow and last on and off through Friday. Overall totals will be 1-2” south of the Missouri River and 2-5” north of the river. Any slight change in surface temperature could have major impacts on snow totals, so please keep a close eye on the forecast as we move into the middle of the week.&nbsp;Here’s the 7-day forecast from the National Weather Service:

Today: Mostly sunny, with a high near 29. South wind 8 to 11 mph.

Tonight: Snow likely, mainly after 3 a.m. Cloudy, with a low around 28. South wind 10 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New snow accumulation of less than one inch possible.

Wednesday: Snow before 11 a.m., then rain, possibly mixed with snow. High near 37. South wind 11 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New snow accumulation of around an inch possible.

Wednesday Night: A chance of rain and snow before 7 p.m., then a chance of rain between 7 p.m. and 11 p.m., then a chance of rain and snow after 11 p.m. Cloudy, with a low around 34. South wind 6 to 11 mph becoming light after midnight. Chance of precipitation is 50%. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.

Thursday: A chance of rain and snow before 1 p.m., then a chance of rain. Cloudy, with a high near 37. Light and variable wind. Chance of precipitation is 50%. New precipitation amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch possible.

Thursday Night: A chance of rain and snow before 9 p.m., then a chance of snow. Cloudy, with a low around 28. Chance of precipitation is 50%. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.

Friday: A chance of snow before noon. Cloudy, with a high near 34. Chance of precipitation is 30%.

Friday Night: Cloudy, with a low around 29.

Saturday: Mostly cloudy, with a high near 37.

Saturday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 27.

Sunday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 42.

Sunday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 28.

Monday: Partly sunny, with a high near 44.

A very cold morning to start out the day with temperatures in the single digits and wind chill values into the negative values. We will quickly heat up into the 20s and 30s by the afternoon and will even go above freezing south of the Missouri River. A long duration winter storm system will approach the area tonight with snow starting in eastern KS and into western MO by midnight. This snow will move east over the entire area with a switch to a rain and snow mix in the afternoon Wednesday for all but northern Missouri. This rain and snow mix will likely last through Thursday late morning before turning to all rain until sunset. After sunset on Thursday all precipitation will quickly turn to snow and last on and off through Friday. Overall totals will be 1-2” south of the Missouri River and 2-5” north of the river. Any slight change in surface temperature could have major impacts on snow totals, so please keep a close eye on the forecast as we move into the middle of the week.&nbsp;Here’s the 7-day forecast from the National Weather Service:Today: Mostly sunny, with a high near 29. South wind 8 to 11 mph.Tonight: Snow likely, mainly after 3 a.m. Cloudy, with a low around 28. South wind 10 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 18 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New snow accumulation of less than one inch possible.Wednesday: Snow before 11 a.m., then rain, possibly mixed with snow. High near 37. South wind 11 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New snow accumulation of around an inch possible.Wednesday Night: A chance of rain and snow before 7 p.m., then a chance of rain between 7 p.m. and 11 p.m., then a chance of rain and snow after 11 p.m. Cloudy, with a low around 34. South wind 6 to 11 mph becoming light after midnight. Chance of precipitation is 50%. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.Thursday: A chance of rain and snow before 1 p.m., then a chance of rain. Cloudy, with a high near 37. Light and variable wind. Chance of precipitation is 50%. New precipitation amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch possible.Thursday Night: A chance of rain and snow before 9 p.m., then a chance of snow. Cloudy, with a low around 28. Chance of precipitation is 50%. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.Friday: A chance of snow before noon. Cloudy, with a high near 34. Chance of precipitation is 30%.Friday Night: Cloudy, with a low around 29.Saturday: Mostly cloudy, with a high near 37.Saturday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 27.Sunday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 42.Sunday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 28.Monday: Partly sunny, with a high near 44.