Blowing Snow Closes Schools, Disrupts Traffic

Snarled traffic and closed schools were the primary features of the area's first winter storm of the season. With snowfall amounts expected in the 1 to 3-inch range, the National Weather Service (NWS) predicts as much as another inch during the day Thursday. A winter weather advisory is in effect Thursday until 6 p.m.

The NWS forecast for today: Snow showers and widespread blowing snow before noon, then snow showers likely after noon. High near 27. Breezy, with a west wind between 18 and 20 mph, with gusts as high as 31 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%. Total daytime snow accumulation of less than one inch possible.

The relatively small amount of snow, blown about by steady winds, caused the Northwest and Fox school districts to cancel classes. Lindbergh and Rockwood schools are open, however, although some buses were late. Commute times were much slower as motorists travelled on snow-covered, but largely clear roads, according to MoDOT.

A more extended winter forecast from the NWS calls for the cold temperatures to continue Friday, with a high expected to be 27 degrees and winds between 9 and 15 mph. Skies are expected to be sunny.

A warm-up to a high of about 40 degrees is predicted for Saturday and Sunday.