INFORMATION FROM MODOT:
Missouri’s first major snow event across the state this weekend will create impossible travel conditions and the potential for tree damage and power outages due to ice. The Missouri Department of Transportation says to avoid traveling during this winter storm.
Wintry precipitation is expected to start Saturday afternoon in western Missouri and last into Monday morning before exiting east of Missouri. The storm is expected to produce a mix of wintry weather:
- Snow is expected in the northern half of the state potentially producing more than a foot of snow.
- Wind gusts of 30+mph are expected.
- Freezing rain is forecasted in the southern portion of Missouri with the central portion of the state expecting a combination of ice, sleet and snow.
- The storm is also expected to bring bitterly cold temperatures on Monday, which limit the effectiveness of chemical treatments on the roads
MoDOT warns that “every stranded car slows down the snowplow’s ability to clear the roads and prevents emergency vehicles from reaching their destinations.” If someone must travel, slow down for the conditions, buckle up, and avoid distractions such as illegally using a handheld device while driving. Travelers are also urged to be especially cautious on elevated surfaces such as bridges and overpasses. MoDOT urges drivers to make a winter weather emergency kit before traveling in winter weather, with necessary medication, a phone charger, a blanket, bottled water, nonperishable foods and a flashlight. For more items to include in a winter weather emergency kit, visit modot.org/winter.
Drivers should also plan ahead for their Monday morning commute: watch local forecasts for updates and delay travel until conditions improve.
Drivers involved in a minor crash or slide off the road, should remain in the vehicle with the seat belt buckled.
Across the state, MoDOT has approximately 1,500 snow trucks that will be operating with crews working 12-hour shifts from before the snow starts until roads are in a mostly clear condition after the snow ends. Missouri road conditions are available 24/7 on the Traveler Information Map at www.modot.org on desktop and mobile devices.