Snow began falling early Sunday in the county, covering roads amid predictions of brutal wind chill overnight. 

The Missouri Department of Transportation issued a “no travel advisory” for the duration of this storm, which is expected to continue through part of Sunday. Churches began dismissing services early Sunday.

This storm system is tracking from the west to the east and will bring bitter cold temperatures and snow accumulations of up to six inches throughout much of the state, according to the National Weather Service. Sleet and freezing rain will also be possible. Blowing snow will also reduce visibilities at times on Sunday. Snow accumulation could reach an inch per hour.

“We advise everyone to stay off the roads,” said Becky Allmeroth, MoDOT State Maintenance Engineer / Chief Safety and Operations Officer. “At times, snow will be heavy. For your safety please stay home.”

Road treatment chemicals are affected by the extreme cold. At 30 degrees, one pound of salt will melt 46.3 pounds of ice, but at 0 degrees, the same pound of salt will melt just 3.7 pounds of ice. When temperatures drop below freezing, MoDOT often adds other products such as calcium chloride and beet juice to the salt to help it work more effectively.

HOW TO GET WEATHER INFORMATION

For road conditions including winter weather conditions and traffic speeds, check MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map at traveler.modot.org. The map is also available as a free app for Apple and Android devices.

Motorists can also call MoDOT’s customer service center for road conditions at 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (888-275-6636). The toll-free phone line is answered 24-hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.