Midwest Snow Storm: A dangerous mix of snow, sleet, & freezing rain

ST. LOUIS -- A complex winter storm system threatening the region this weekend could create dangerous travel conditions and potential power outages. Different areas are facing a mix of frozen precipitation depending on their location.

The storm, expected to begin Saturday evening and continue through Monday morning, will bring heavy snow north of Interstate 70 in Missouri, while areas south of Interstate 44 face the prospect of significant ice from freezing rain. The St. Louis metropolitan area sits in a transition zone where residents could see a mix of all three precipitation types: snow, sleet, and freezing rain.

"Freezing rain is by far the most dangerous," said meteorologist Angela Hutti. "It creates black ice on roads that drivers may not be able to see, and can build up on tree limbs and power lines." When combined with forecasted winds, this ice accumulation could lead to widespread power outages.

Hutti referenced a similar event in January 2017 that resulted in many power outages across the region. This weekend's storm poses particular concerns for southern areas with hillier terrain and narrow roads that may not receive immediate treatment.

While sleet can also create slick conditions, it tends to be less hazardous than freezing rain as it can be shoveled and provides some traction. Snow, which is expected to be the dominant precipitation type north of I-70, typically allows for better tire grip on road surfaces.

The exact impacts remain uncertain, as small changes in the storm's track could significantly affect which areas receive what type of precipitation. However, officials emphasize that regardless of precipitation type, the storm will create hazardous travel conditions throughout the region.

As always, stay tuned to your local forecast for updates and prepare for winter weather impacts, including potential power outages.