Snow and Freezing Temperatures Mean Slick Roads and Slow Commutes

With another bout of icy temperatures rolling through the St. Louis area, the Missouri Department of Transportation is working to keep roads clear.

Plows and salt trucks were all out early Thursday after starting out Wednesday evening when snow began to fall.

“It’s important for drivers to watch out for our crews,” a MoDot spokesman said.

Overnight, plummeting temperatures increased the likelihood of freezing precipitation on roads. Snow accumulation of 6 to 7 inches was forecast along the interstate 70 corridor from Columbia, MO to St. Louis.

“Thursday morning might be very slick and messy,” MoDOT spokesperson Kara Price said Wednesday.

MoDOT first plows the highest-traveled interstates and regionally-significant roads, such as Lindbergh and Olive boulevards and Manchester Road, until they are mostly clear. Less-traveled roads are then plowed with attention given to hills, curves and intersections.

MoDOT advised motorists to make alternate travel plans for Thursday morning commutes such as going into work later or telecommuting.

“We know it’s not possible for everyone to alter their commute,” said Jack Wang, another spokesperson for MoDOT. “If you have to make the commute, drive slower than you would if it was raining and allow extra time.”

According to Wang, crews have been pre-treating the roads with a salt brine and beet juice mixture. The combination works to keep moisture from freezing.

Motorists are encouraged to check the online traveler information map at www.modot.org or call MoDOT’s 24-hour toll-free customer service center at 1-888-ASK-MoDOT before traveling.