Westbound I-44 CLOSED in/around Joplin

UPDATE: As of 6:30pm, I-44 is back open in and around Joplin.

As a major winter storm continues to drop heavy snowfall, gusty winds are creating near-whiteout conditions.

Click here for the latest from the National Weather Service.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says Interstate 44 is CLOSED in SW MO!

Where: Westbound I-44 at Mile Marker 11 near Missouri/Oklahoma state line

When: Noon, Tuesday, February 18 until further notice

What: Due to extreme weather and multi-vehicle crashes on the Oklahoma Turnpike, westbound Interstate 44 is CLOSED at mile marker 11 near the Missouri-Oklahoma state line for an extended and unknown duration. The Missouri Department of Transportation recommends all drivers seek an alternate route or prepare to stop and seek shelter. The final opportunity to exit from westbound I-44 will be at Exit 11, where drivers can exit to the north to Missouri Route 249 or south to I-49.

Traffic Impacts:

• Westbound I-44 CLOSED at Mile Marker 11 near Missouri/Oklahoma state line
• Last opportunity to exit westbound I-44 is Exit 11 where drivers will be diverted north to Missouri Route 249 or south to I-49
• Drivers urged to find alternate routes
• Signs and message boards will alert drivers approaching the closure
• Check MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map for road closings/traffic impacts