Lawrence Parks Department worker John Schrum is lost in a swirling gust of snow as he uses a snow brush to clear walkways near the intersection of Eighth and Massachusetts streets Tuesday in downtown Lawrence. Tuesday's snowfall, combined with relentless winds, made for uncomfortable walking conditions.

Tuesday's sudden drop in temperature -- 20 degrees in 2 hours -- was all it took to create havoc in downtown Lawrence. Jessica Irving, It's About Time employee, tried to help melt some of the snow and ice that was forming on the sidewalks.

The weather has taken locals on a roller coaster ride this week.

“Can you believe we went from 60 degrees to 16?” 6News meteorologist Matt Elwell said of the week’s temperature fluctuations.

“Pretty amazing. Monday’s high was 60. Tuesday’s low was 16.”

Today may offer a respite from snow. The forecast calls for scattered clouds and south winds with a high of 39 and low of 26.

But expect to wake up to snow on Thursday, Elwell said, adding that drivers should use caution getting to work because there will be accumulations during the morning rush hour.

Accumulations of 2 to 4 inches are expected by the end of the day.

Thursday’s snow is expected to be the last for this week – ending a wild ride that included moments of bone-chilling cold and throw-off-your-jacket warmth.

Monday felt a bit like spring. The high of 60 degrees nearly hit the record high of 64. And some areas of central Kansas saw temperatures in the low 70s, 6News chief meteorologist Jennifer Schack said.

The temperatures raised spirits and spurred some to put on shorts.

It “was the first day that I rode my bike,” Kansas University senior Agata Kaminska said.

Then Tuesday hit. The day started out mild with temperatures in the 50s. At 5 a.m., the temperature was 53.

But by 10 a.m., the mercury had sunk to 19 degrees. Midday wind chills were below zero.

The low temperatures and gusty winds made for tough conditions for drivers and pedestrians. Douglas County emergency dispatchers said Tuesday afternoon they had received more than a dozen accident reports.

“We’re just getting these tastes of spring and all of a sudden a nice bash of winter mixed right back in,” Elwell said.

One day after riding her bike to school, Kaminska struggled through wind and snow to get to class on foot.

“You have to turn backwards and wait for the gust of snow to pass before you continue,” she said.

“I’m a bit disappointed. If there’s going to be snow, there better be enough for us to be able to sled.”

Schack said she expects more ups and downs in the weather in the weeks to come. And it’s too early to pack away those coats.

“For the most part,” she said, “I’d plan on anticipating more winter.”