Wichita, Kan. – Snow began falling across southwest Kansas early Friday morning and intensified through the afternoon, leading to hazardous travel conditions and multiple crashes across the region. According to KSNW, accumulating snowfall quickly overwhelmed road crews and created dangerous driving conditions in several counties.
Several Inches of Snow Reported Across the Region
By 4 p.m. Friday, Garden City had recorded approximately 7 inches of snow, while KSN Storm Track 3 received a report of 11 inches in Morton County. The fast-moving winter system brought heavy snowfall rates that made travel increasingly difficult as the day progressed.
In Hodgeman County, the sheriff’s office shared images on social media showing extremely poor visibility, underscoring how rapidly conditions deteriorated during the storm.
Highways Snow-Packed and Icy Despite Plowing Efforts
The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) reported that highways throughout southwest Kansas became snow-packed and icy as snowfall continued at a rapid pace. Crews were actively plowing, but officials said roads were being recovered with snow within minutes of clearing.
KDOT urged residents to avoid travel if possible, emphasizing that road conditions could worsen quickly, especially during peak snowfall periods.
Law Enforcement Reports Crashes and Impassable Roads
The Finney County Sheriff’s Office described road conditions as “terrible,” noting that some routes became impassable due to slick surfaces and traffic backups.
The Garden City Police Department confirmed that first responders were dispatched to multiple crashes, most of which occurred outside city limits. While city crews worked throughout the day to keep roads clear, officials warned that falling temperatures overnight would likely refreeze moisture and create additional slick spots.
Visibility Concerns and Public Safety Warnings
In Hodgeman County, the sheriff’s office warned residents to stay home unless travel was absolutely necessary.
“If you don’t have to go anywhere stay home and stay safe!” the agency posted online.
Officials across the region echoed similar warnings, stressing that reduced visibility and icy surfaces could lead to sudden and dangerous driving situations.
KDOT Issues Winter Driving Safety Tips
As the storm continues to affect travel, KDOT reminded drivers to take extra precautions in winter conditions, including:
- Move over and give snowplows space to work safely
- Allow extra travel time
- Increase following distance
- Buckle up and drive for conditions
Weather officials and transportation authorities say conditions may remain hazardous as temperatures drop, increasing the risk of refreezing overnight.
