A significant winter weather system will move into the St. Louis metropolitan area Wednesday morning, bringing a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain. The storm system has been rated as a moderate impact event (Category 3 out of 5) for metro St. Louis and areas to the north, while southern regions will experience minor effects.
Light snow showers and flurries are possible throughout Tuesday, with minimal accumulation. Earlier snowfall from the first wave of winter weather produced between a dusting to half an inch in far southern and southeastern counties.
When are we expecting the storm?
The main weather event will begin Wednesday morning, with precipitation spreading across the region from the southwest between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. The most intense precipitation is expected between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., when the bulk of accumulation will occur in the metro area. The system is forecast to wind down between 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
Where will the snow fall?
Areas north of Interstate 44 in Missouri and Interstate 70 in Illinois will receive primarily snow. The metro St. Louis area will be divided, with the southeast half experiencing more sleet and possible freezing rain, while the northwest half will see predominantly snow. Regions southeast of I-44 in Missouri and south of I-70 in Illinois should prepare for a mix of sleet and freezing rain. The southeastern portion of the coverage area may transition to rain after an initial period of freezing precipitation.
How much snow are we getting?
- Northwestern areas: 5-7 inches of snow possible
- Metro St. Louis: 1-3 inches where snow and sleet mix
- Southeast of metro area: Minor snow and sleet accumulation
- Areas southeast of metro St. Louis: Up to 1/10th inch of freezing rain possible on elevated surfaces
The most significant travel disruptions are expected along and north of I-44 in Missouri, throughout metro St. Louis, and along and north of I-70 in Illinois.