Major winter storm event forecast for this weekend
JEFFERSON CITY – The National Weather Service is warning of Missouri’s first major snow event across the state this weekend including impossible travel conditions and the potential for tree damage and power outages due to ice. The Missouri Department of Transportation is advising travelers to avoid traveling during the 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.
“This winter storm has the potential to create extremely hazardous driving conditions for most of the state,” said Chief Safety and Operations Officer Becky Allmeroth. “We urge all drivers to plan to arrive at their destinations ahead of the storm and be prepared to stay there. It is expected to impact Monday morning’s commute as well. If you can, stay home and give us room to work. Remember, every stranded car slows down the snowplow’s ability to clear the roads and prevents emergency vehicles from reaching their destinations.
MoDOT urges anyone who must travel in the storm to use extra caution during and after the precipitation: slow down for the conditions, buckle up, and avoid distractions such as using a handheld device while driving – it’s the law. Travelers are also urged to be especially cautious on elevated surfaces such as bridges and overpasses. Drivers should also plan ahead for their Monday morning commute: watch local forecasts for updates and delay travel until conditions improve.
Should you be involved in a minor crash or slide off the road, remain in your vehicle with the seat belt buckled. Equip your vehicle with a winter weather emergency kit before you travel in winter weather. Include any 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.
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. Drivers can also find road conditions by following MoDOT on Facebook and X or by calling 888-ASK-MODOT (888-275-6636) to speak with a customer service representative.