With improvement on highways, today’s challenge will be the cold, the National Weather Service says.
Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon said Sunday the Missouri State Highway Patrol was reporting fewer cars on highways making it easier for MoDOT to clean roadways. Nixon noted Missourians opted for safety, allowing highways to become cleared sooner.
Texas County school districts dismissed classes for Monday ahead of a National Weather Service forecast that called for subzero temperatures with brisk winds.
On Monday morning, motorists were reporting problems with one troublespot in the area: At Airport Road and Hawthorn, where high winds whipped up and drifted snow. Traffic is not advised there.
In downtown Houston, City of Houston workers  Sunday afternoon hauled snow out of the downtown business district. Parking spaces are open.
MoDOT urged motorists to be cautious when traveling today: When temperatures dip this low, getting stranded on the side of the road can be very dangerous. Before you head out, equip your vehicle with an emergency kit and let a friend or family member know when and where you’re traveling. If you do become stranded, stay with your vehicle and call 911. Be aware that emergency responders may have difficulty reaching you.
One of the best ways to prepare for winter travel is to check MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map, located at www.modot.org. The map offers real-time views of road conditions for Missouri’s interstates and major highways.
For smartphone and tablet users, MoDOT’s Traveler Information App brings the same information to your mobile devices. Users can select road condition and work zone options from the map’s legend, and view the same cameras and message boards found on desktop version of the map. The app is available for free at the iPhone App Store and Android Marketplace.
Travelers can also pick up the phone and call MoDOT’s toll-free customer service center at 888-ASK-MODOT (888-275-6636). Customer service representatives are available to give road conditions updates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
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