Based on forecasts from January 21, 2026, a winter storm watch is in effect for the River Valley from Friday, January 23, through Sunday, January 25. Weather experts are fairly confident that this storm will bring a good amount of snow, and there is a 50-60% chance that some areas could see more than 6 inches of it. Snow is expected to begin Friday evening and become heavier overnight. The heaviest snow should fall on Saturday, with lighter snow possibly leading into Sunday morning.

This storm will also bring very cold air into the region. Temperatures are expected to drop below freezing on Friday and stay below freezing throughout the weekend. At the start of the storm, there may be a mix of sleet or freezing rain, which could make roads slippery and very dangerous. The highest temperatures on both Saturday and Sunday will stay below freezing, and by early Sunday morning, temperatures could fall below zero. This cold weather will make it very hard for snow and ice to melt, causing it to stay on the ground for even longer.

Because of this extreme weather in Fort Smith and the River Valley, travel could be very dangerous. Roads may be covered in snow and ice, and visibility could be low during heavy snowfall. These unsafe conditions have prompted us to make changes to local events. Southside High School has moved its basketball games in Rogers, Arkansas, from Friday evening to Thursday, January 22. The time and location of these games will stay the same.

With the amount of snow that is expected and the very cold temperatures and bad weather, schools in the River Valley may be cancelled, especially on Monday, January 26. If roads are still icy or snow-covered, it may not be safe for buses or students to travel. This could mean a snow day for students! Because Arkansas schools now include real snow days in their calendars, students will not have to make up the day later, unless the built-in snow days are exceeded. Instead, students now get to enjoy a day off while staying warm and safe in their homes, without having to worry about doing schoolwork. 

A change in recent years is having snow days built into the school year. In the past, missed school days due to snow often meant making them up later, which could shorten breaks or even extend the school year. Now, when bad weather forces schools to close, students can stay home and stay safe without worrying about extra work or lost time later on. It also allows teachers to plan their lessons better without rushing through material. Overall, built-in snow days make the school schedule more flexible and help everyone focus on safety instead of stressing about make-up days.

All in all, the winter storm expected to impact the River Valley this weekend could bring heavy snow, freezing temperatures, and dangerous travel conditions. With snow and ice likely to affect roads, schools, and local events, it is important for everyone to stay informed and prepared. While the storm may cause disruptions, it also highlights the benefits of having snow days built into the school schedule, allowing students, teachers, and other staff to stay safe without added stress. As this crazy weather unfolds, residents should use caution, limit travel when possible, and take advantage of time to stay warm and safe indoors.