The first snowstorm of 2026 sliced through the central part of the state on Friday, leaving accumulations of almost 11 inches at the Kansas-Colorado border and tapering off as the storm traveled east. 

Morton County in the bottom southwest corner or the state reported 11 inches, with several counties reporting around six inches or more. The storm that tracked through the Golden Belt Friday afternoon brought hazardous driving conditions, slick, icy roads and up to four inches of snowfall.

The Barton County Sheriff’s Office reported a slew of slide-offs and vehicle crashes attributed to weather conditions from around 3:30 to about 7 p.m. Friday. Likewise, the Pawnee County Sheriff’s Office responded to several requests for motorist assists and non-injury crashes into the late afternoon as snow accumulations reached about four inches. 

Warmer temperatures through the weekend helped to clear streets and roadways heading into the work week. The long-range forecast indicates a small chance for snow to return with lower temperatures Friday and Saturday.