NWS latest update: Snowfall pushed back a couple hours in region; predicted accumulation totals unchanged

(This story has been updated to reflect the latest NWS forecast.)

The National Weather Service office in Paducah, Kentucky, pushed back the expected arrival of a winter storm in the Cape Girardeau area to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 18.

Previous guidance from the service indicated snowfall beginning around 2 p.m.

A winter storm warning is in effect through 9 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19, for many counties of Southeast Missouri

Forecasters are predicting 5 to 8 inches of snow in Cape Girardeau, although a predicted band of 6 to 10 inches of snow is very near the city. Officials expect most of the region to receive at least 4 inches of snow and possibly up to 11 inches.

"Travel could be very difficult. The hazardous conditions could impact the Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning commutes," the winter weather message states.

The winter weather message also encourages people to bring "an extra flashlight, food and water" if they have to travel.