By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
Winter officially begins on Dec. 21. Kansas weather is paying attention. After highs above freezing through Wednesday, the forecast high for Thursday dips down to minus two. High winds will make those temperatures even more dangerous, with wind chills expected to near minus-40 degrees in North Central Kansas. Barton County Emergency Risk Manager Amy Miller said the timing of the weather will not help matters.
"It's kind of a double-whammy for us this time because the extreme cold and everything is going to happen over a holiday weekend," she said. "There could be a lot of issues with travel. They're currently forecasting a possibility of blowing snow. If people are on the road, that might create some safety issues."
Experts warn against unnecessary travel in extreme cold, but those who are on the road should pack accordingly. Check tire pressure, antifreeze levels, and the vehicle's heater before hitting the road. In the house, keep faucets located next to exterior walls running and know where the water shutoff valve is. And, of course, bring in pets or provide a warm shelter with fresh, unfrozen water. See more tips by clicking here.
"If people are leaving, that's another worry," Miller said. "They have to worry about getting there, then they have to worry about what's going on at home if they're leaving home."
Forecast highs climb back above zero on Friday, and above freezing on Sunday, but lows will remain dangerously cold for some time. The chance of precipitation Thursday is around 70 percent.