402 pm cdt sat Mar 28 2009

Early spring storm will bring snow and sleet to region tonight.

An intense area of low pressure will move northeast across southern Missouri
and Illinois tonight. A band of heavy, wet snow mixed with sleet may bring
more than 6 inches of snow to parts of northeast Missouri this afternoon
and this evening.

Farther south and east, the rain will gradually change to snow late this 

afternoon and this evening. Total snow accumulation across the advisory 

area is expected to be 2 to 5 inches, with locally higher amounts possible.

Sleet and snow will mix with rain before changing over to all snow this 

evening. Freezing rain is also possible this evening. Total sleet and 

snowfall of 2 to 5 inches, with locally higher amounts, is possible 

before the snow ends late tonight. The combination of a strong and gusty 

north wind and large, wet snowflakes will reduce the visibility below one 

mile at times tonight.

A winter weather advisory means that up to 5 inches of snow is expected 

across the advisory area. Roads may rapidly become slippery once the snow 

begins, so motorists should plan for a slower-than-normal trip. Be 

especially alert when approaching bridges, overpasses and curves.