MoDOT Prepares for second Winter storm Motorists Encouraged to Adjust Travel Plans

JEFFERSON CITY, MO – Less than a week after a major storm left

Missouri covered with snow and ice, a second storm is moving into the

state.

The Missouri Department of Transportation is transferring equipment

and personnel to central and northern Missouri, preparing to battle the

snow predicted to arrive late afternoon on Monday, Feb. 25. The forecast

indicates the heaviest band of snow will stretch from south of Kansas City

to Kirksville, but accumulating snowfall is predicted for all areas north

of U.S. 54.

"MoDOT is prepared and will activate crews to plow and treat roads as

soon as possible," said Elizabeth Wright, MoDOT state maintenance engineer.

"Unfortunately, the combination of strong winds and heavy snowfall means

whiteout conditions may occur. That makes travel extremely hazardous and

makes clearing roads very difficult."

Motorists in the western and northern portions of the state should

check local weather forecasts and prepare now to alter their work schedules

and travel plans on Monday and Tuesday to avoid becoming caught in the

storm.

MoDOT also advises drivers of delivery trucks, tractor-trailers, and

other high-profile vehicles to be aware of the potential for high winds

during the heaviest snowfall. MoDOT recommends these vehicles be prepared

to take a break at the nearest accommodating exit at the first sign of

trouble or low visibility. MoDOT rest area and truck parking information is

available at www.modot.org/services/travel/restarea/index.htm.

If you must venture out, pack food, water, blankets, and a flashlight

with fresh batteries. Drive slowly, carefully, and stay back from plow

trucks. If you are involved in a crash or slide off the roadway, stay in

your vehicle. Crashed vehicles should be moved as far off the roadway as

possible.

Stay informed about Missouri road conditions by using MoDOT's

Traveler Information Map, available online at www.modot.org, or through

MoDOT's new smartphone app, available for iPhone and Android phones. The

map offers current views of road conditions for Missouri interstates and

highways. You can zoom in to a particular location, check live weather

radar, and view images from MoDOT's traffic cameras and message boards.

MoDOT also provides road condition information through our Customer

Service Center. Dial 888-ASK-MODOT (888-275-6636) to speak with a customer

service representative 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.