2 winter storms in store this week

However, this activity will not be as widespread as it will be on Monday, and impacts will be limited to confined areas. In addition to the snowfall amounts, three-quarters of an inch of ice accumulation and gusty winds caused widespread power outages across OR, according to the Weather Channel.

While some light freezing drizzle could cause slick spots on roads and bridges this weekend, it appears we will have to deal with what could turn out to be a significant winter storm Sunday night and Monday. It remains in effect from 1 a.m. Monday to 10 a.m. Tuesday. Total snow accumulations of 4 to 8 inches, with locally higher amounts, are expected.

"Our biggest snow in over 3 years will blanket the Tri-State with 5-10" of snow beginning late Sunday night through Monday. Warnings and watches will last through Tuesday afternoon.

This is the same storm that may bring snow and ice as far south as Austin and Houston, but because it is slated to pass to our west as it moves along the zone of greatest temperature contrasts, it will draw mild air into the region.

Forecasters say travel could be "very difficult" and could affect morning or evening commutes during that time. The NWS in Dallas is calling the snow threat a historic winter storm.

TUESDAY: Temperatures will remain below freezing on Tuesday so any ice that accumulates will still be causing problems.

This for the expectation that we will see freezing rain (ice) and/or sleet during this time period, so it is not overly surprising that the weather service went ahead and issued this watch this morning. Once again this looks to be a snow and mixed precipitation event.

The forecast for Mardi Gras does include a hard freeze warning and a wind chill advisory so maybe it's a good thing the coronavirus shut our parades down already.

GFS keeps us at or below freezing and if that does indeed come to fruition, then travel remains unsafe through Wednesday morning until temperatures finally climb above freezing.

You should make your final preparations this morning!

"Crews are out in full force now and are coordinating with local emergency response teams on communications for emergency services, such as warming centers", Brown said in a statement.