ILLINOIS — A Winter Storm Watch is in effect for a large portion of southern Illinois as a significant winter weather system is expected to impact the region from late Friday night through Sunday morning. The watch, issued by the National Weather Service Paducah Forecast Office, covers counties roughly south of Interstate-70 and includes communities such as Cairo, Golconda, Metropolis, and surrounding areas.
What the Watch Means
A Winter Storm Watch indicates that periods of moderate to heavy snow are possible during the watch period, with the potential for total snow accumulations exceeding 5 inches in the watch area. The highest snowfall totals are currently forecast near the Arkansas and Tennessee borders in southeastern Missouri and adjacent parts of southern Illinois, though exact amounts remain uncertain as the system continues to evolve.
This watch also comes as part of a broader regional winter pattern that includes very cold Arctic air returning to the central U.S. later this week, increasing the risk of hazardous winter conditions across multiple states.
Timing and Impacts
- Timing: The Winter Storm Watch is valid from late Friday night through Sunday morning, with snow expected to begin late Friday and continue through much of Saturday and into Sunday in some areas.
- Snow Potential: Moderate to heavy snow could develop, with southern Illinois poised to see several inches if the storm tracks as currently forecast.
- Hazardous Conditions: Travel may become difficult to dangerous, especially on rural roads and bridges, due to accumulating snow and very cold temperatures accompanying the system.
Preparation and Outlook
Residents in the watch area are advised to monitor local forecasts and prepare for winter weather impacts over the weekend. The watch could be upgraded to a Winter Storm Warning as the event approaches and confidence increases in specific snow amounts and timing.
Local school districts, transportation officials, and emergency managers will be watching how the forecast evolves, as significant snow this weekend could affect travel conditions and activities through Sunday and possibly into early next week.
