If you live in Southern Illinois or Southeast Missouri, get ready for a tough 24 hours. Heavy snow, biting winds, and dangerously low temperatures are sweeping through the area, making travel risky and outdoor conditions downright brutal.
A Winter Storm Warning is in effect until Wednesday morning, with 4 to 9 inches of snow expected, depending on where you are. But the bigger issue might be the dangerous wind chills, which could make it feel as cold as -15°F (-26°C) tonight.
If you don’t have to go out, it’s best to stay inside where it’s warm and safe.
What’s Happening Right Now?
Snow is already falling across parts of the region, and roads are getting slick fast. It’s cold, it’s windy, and conditions are only going to get worse as the night goes on.
Here’s what it looks like outside this afternoon:
- Carbondale, IL – 17°F (-8°C), light snow falling
- Cape Girardeau, MO – 21°F (-6°C), cloudy, snow expected soon
- Poplar Bluff, MO – 19°F (-7°C), snow just starting
- Marion, IL – 16°F (-9°C), overcast, winds making it feel even colder
The snow will pick up in intensity this evening, and by midnight, roads will likely be covered, icy, and dangerous.
How Long Will This Last?
- Tuesday Afternoon – Evening: Snow continues to fall, becoming heavier in some spots. Travel will get worse as snow piles up.
- Tuesday Night – Early Wednesday: The storm peaks overnight, dumping several more inches of snow while wind chills plunge well below zero.
- Wednesday Morning – Noon: Snow tapers off, but roads will still be slick and icy. Even though the snow will stop, temperatures will remain bitterly cold, keeping things frozen solid.
How Much Snow Are We Getting?
- Southern Illinois (Carbondale, Marion, Mt. Vernon): 4 to 7 inches
- Southeast Missouri (Cape Girardeau, Poplar Bluff, Sikeston): 5 to 9 inches, with strong winds creating snow drifts
- Interstate 64 Corridor (St. Louis to Evansville): 3 to 6 inches, with icy spots in some areas
Even if your area doesn’t get the most snow, the cold and slick roads will be a big problem—especially for early morning drivers.
What’s the Biggest Concern?
Treacherous Roads – Snow will accumulate fast, making roads slick, snow-packed, and icy. Bridges and overpasses will freeze first, so drive extra carefully.
Dangerous Wind Chills – Temperatures are already well below freezing, but the wind is making it feel even worse. At -15°F (-26°C), frostbite can happen in just 30 minutes on exposed skin.
Blowing Snow & Whiteout Conditions – Winds up to 25 mph will blow snow back onto roads, making visibility poor and keeping road conditions dangerous even after the snow stops.
Power Outages Possible – Heavy snow and ice could weigh down power lines, causing scattered outages in some areas.
Keep Pets & Livestock Safe – If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them. Bring pets inside and make sure livestock have shelter, food, and access to unfrozen water.
Weather Alerts & Warnings
- Winter Storm Warning – In effect until Wednesday morning for Southern Illinois and Southeast Missouri. Expect heavy snow, strong winds, and dangerously cold temperatures.
- Extreme Cold Warning – Wind chills as low as -15°F (-26°C) will make outdoor exposure extremely dangerous.
- Travel Advisory – Snow-covered roads and blowing snow could make travel extremely dangerous.
How to Stay Safe in This Winter Storm
Avoid Driving If You Can – Roads will be hazardous, and plows may not be able to keep up. If you must drive, go slow and bring an emergency kit with extra blankets, snacks, and a phone charger.
Dress for the Extreme Cold – If you have to be outside, layer up. Wear a hat, gloves, scarf, and thick socks—and don’t stay out too long.
Check on Elderly Neighbors & Loved Ones – Make sure they have heat, food, and everything they need to stay warm and safe.
Keep Pets Indoors – If you’re cold, they’re cold. Bring them inside, and don’t leave them outside for long periods.
Prepare for Power Outages – Charge your phone now, have flashlights and extra batteries ready, and avoid using generators or grills indoors (they can be deadly).
