By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
At least it waited until the busiest travel week of the year was over. Just barely. Winter weather crept into the state over the weekend, but the first major snow accumulations across Kansas are expected on Monday, especially in the northeast part of the state.
Central Kansas is unlikely to escape at least a dusting. The National Weather Service in Wichita issued a Winter Weather Advisory for areas that include Barton, Pawnee, Stafford, Ellsworth, Russell, and Rice counties. A 50 percent chance of snow was expected across the region beginning at 4 a.m. Monday morning. Snow becomes more likely before noon, with a high temperature of 27 degrees.
Counties in the southern part of the Eagle Media listening area are expected to be impacted less, with 1-2 inches of snow predicted for Pawnee and Barton counties. Slightly more accumulation of 2-4 inches is predicted for Ellsworth and Russell counties.
The white stuff will likely stick around through Tuesday morning with an overnight low Monday of 17 degrees, and a high Tuesday of 40 degrees.
The National Weather Service reminds drivers:
When driving, if roads are snow covered or icy, slow down and drive carefully. Vehicle stopping distances are increased 2-6 times on snow and ice. Keep extra distance between you and other vehicles. Turn on your headlights while driving in rain or snow.
Allow extra time to get to your destination.
As a motorist, you are far more likely to have an accident when driving during an icy road conditions than an equivalent amount of time driving during rainy or dry weather. If possible, avoid travel during winter storms. If you have the option to telework or work from home, snowy or icy days are good days to do so.
Clean off your vehicle before driving, as flying snow or impaired vision can cause accidents.