UPDATE ON MAJOR WINTER WX EVENT

I will tell you this...If somebody says they didn't know about the winter event that is unfolding as I write this, they are living in a cave!

A major winter weather event is unfolding at this time in SE Colorado, NE New Mexico, and the OK and TX panhandles. Amarillo proper is currently in a BLIZZARD WARNING! No, no, there is no need for an eye appointment, you read it right.

A cold front blasted through Amarillo last night around 10pm. Also, a major low pressure system is now currently located in SE Colorado. These 2 ingredients combined will pull moisture up from the gulf, and the net result is a lot of snow.

All media outlets and NWS offices are calling for major snow and whiteout conditions all day on Friday. Snow rates of up to 2-3 inches an hour will be possible along with wind gusts approaching 55 mph, hence the blizzard warning. As it stands right now, the models have been very consistent with anywhere from 12-14 inches of windblown snow here in Amarillo. Further north, say into areas in the OK panhandle, snowfall totals may approach 18-24 inches. There will also be possible isolated areas with 30+ inches possible in the OK panhandle and SW KS.

The AMA NWS stated that due to the high amounts of snow and extreme winds, drifts of 10-20 feet do not seem unreasonable at this time. If this scenario pans out, the region will be totally shut down until Saturday afternoon. Every outlet seems to agree that this may be the biggest crippling snowstorm in recent history.

Now, this is another scenario. Some models have actually trended toward a more southerly track of the low pressure system. If this pans out, Amarillo may receive 18+ inches of snow.

I will definitely be out getting still photos and video for the station I chase for. I will probably update the blog Fri. afternoon with more information and some still photos. Stay tuned!!!

HERE IS A LINK ON THE NWS SITE WITH MORE INFO ON THIS STORM
CLICK HERE