With freezing rain falling the past weekend and no letup in the cold, travel was treacherous, leading to cancellation of many activities Feb. 10-11.
It was not just drivers, but also walkers that had to be careful; since it was not only the streets, but also parking lots, driveways, sidewalks and decks. Even gravel surfaces and many lawns were ice-covered and slick.
The hazard of everything being ice-covered led to a number of reported car and truck and collisions. In addition, several people were reported to have fallen on the ice.
The good news is that temperatures are predicted to reach 60 degrees Fahrenheit on Feb. 14.
As far as the past weekend is concerned, city street crews, county road crews and Missouri Department of Transportation kept at the job of clearing streets and roadways for travel. In addition, people were advised to be sure to check the MoDOT Traveler Information Map at modot.org, if they must travel.
The map showed whether roads are clear, mostly clear, partly covered or covered. In addition, the map displays real-time traffic flow and provides views of traffic cameras that show real-time interstate travel at various locations. Visitors to the map can also take a look at the messages displayed on the electronic message boards located on the Interstate 70 and 44 corridors.
"The storms we've experienced recently have been a little unpredictable, and road conditions can change quickly, so one of the ways you can get a good idea about what's happening on Missouri highways is to check our Traveler Information Map, located at modot.org," MoDOT Central District Maintenance Engineer Jason Shafer said. "If you can stay home, that's the best plan; but we know that's not always possible. That's why it's a good idea to plan ahead, allow extra time for your travels and drive with caution, which means slowing down, buckling up and putting down your phone."