A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for the Kearney area from 6 pm Friday through 6 pm Sunday as a major winter system brings heavy snow and dangerously cold temperatures to the area this weekend.

Forecasters with the National Weather Service say 6–9 inches of snow are possible across much of the region, with localized higher totals depending on storm track. Snow is expected to begin late Friday night and continue through Saturday, with additional bands of snow possible Saturday night into Sunday morning before the system finally moves out.

Temperatures will be bitterly cold as Arctic air pours in ahead of the storm. Wind chills could dip into the negative teens and lower, making outdoor exposure dangerous and raising the risk of frostbite and hypothermia.

Travel conditions are expected to deteriorate quickly as snow accumulates and roads freeze. Officials are urging residents to limit travel if possible, plan ahead, and carry emergency supplies like flashlights, food, and water if driving is unavoidable.

In addition to the Winter Storm Warning, parts of the area may see Cold Weather Advisories as wind chills reach dangerously low values.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.