Blizzard Conditions in Northwest Texas

A major winter storm is bringing blizzard conditions to the Texas and Oklahoma Panhandles. Forecasters say Amarillo, Texas, could get up to 18 inches of snow and wind gusts up to 65 mph.

State officials say whiteout conditions and drifting snow have made all roads in the Texas Panhandle impassable. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol also has closed highways in the Oklahoma Panhandle. Authorities closed Interstate 40 from New Mexico to Oklahoma, and portions of Interstate 27 between Amarillo and Lubbock.

The airport in Lubbock suspended flights for the day and the Amarillo airport is closed until at least 6 a.m. Tuesday.

The winter storm is making its way across the plains and the National Weather Service in Kansas and Oklahoma has issued blizzard warnings and watches through tonight.

Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback is telling people, "stay off the road unless it's absolutely critical."

Forecasters also warn of possible tornadoes in the Southeast.