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A Winter Storm is likely this weekend, what you need know

Winter Storm Watches have already been issued for our area starting Sunday morning through Monday evening.
Credit: KFSM

The coldest air we have seen in a decade is expected to move into our area starting tomorrow and continue into next week. 

The NWS has already issued a Winter Storm Watch for our area starting 6AM Sunday until 6PM Monday night.  A Winter Storm Warning has also been issued in eastern Oklahoma. 

Credit: KFSM

This is because models have pretty consistent on bringing in this system the past few days, so there is now high confidence that we will see a good amount of snow, heavy at times, to our area. Right now, models are showing a minimum of 4 inches and up to a foot, but it will definitely change as we get closer to the event.  

This will make travel very difficult to almost impossible starting Sunday, and especially during the morning and evening commute for Monday. 

Credit: KFSM

Not only are we worried about snow this weekend into early next week, but the temperatures will be record-breaking. Highs will be in the teens, while lows could potentially be in the negatives. 

Credit: KFSM

Record-breaking temperatures will also be possible in Fort Smith. 

Credit: KFSM

The winds will pick up starting Saturday afternoon. Wind gusts could potentially reach up to 25mph at times and when combined with the cold air, the feel like temperatures will be close to around minus 20. Some of the wind chill values could be life-threatening. 

Credit: KFSM

It's important to remember the 3 P's this weekend:

1) People 2) Pipes 3) Pets

The key takeaway from all of this is that a winter storm is coming with dangerously cold wind chills, high travel impacts, and potentially a good amount of snow.

Stayed tuned for more details! 

- Michelle

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