Friday’s cold, chilly temperatures will slow MoDOT .’s cleanup efforts

JEFFERSON CITY – As winter storms blanketed parts of Missouri with foot-deep snow, the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) advised drivers to be patient as crews continue to clear roads.

According to a MoDOT press release, the cold and frigid temperatures expected on Friday will slow the clearing effort as teams will have small routes to do, off ramps and outside roads, according to MoDOT. MoDOT press release.

MoDOT said there will be slow rides Friday morning in many areas, including St. Louis, Springfield and the southern part of the state. Drivers should exercise caution when driving on high surfaces, hills and curves.

“Our tractors drove nearly 800,000 miles during this storm. That’s three times the distance from the earth to the moon,” said Becky Allmeroth, head of safety and operations at MoDOT. “On Friday, crews will be working a third 12-hour shift this week. Please be patient and give them space to work.”

A large number of shipwrecks over the state of Missouri are the result of this winter storm.

“Strong gusts of wind will cause the snow to drift, making some roads look like they haven’t been cleared. To make matters worse, another sleet and winter spell is forecast for the lower third of the state during the night, primarily affecting areas south of Interstate 44 through Arkansas State Road,” the press release reads.

Single-digit temperatures on Friday could reduce the effectiveness of chemicals used to clear sidewalks, according to MoDOT.

“The crews spread about 10,000 tons of salt this week. You’ll continue to see them working shifts over the weekend until the roads are mostly clear,” Allmeroth said.

For Missouri road conditions and traveler information, click here or visit MoDOT’s social media, or call 888-ASK-MODOT (888-275-6636).