Snow and ice are likely on their way.  While Missouri Department of Transportation crews gear up for bad weather, Missouri drivers have a new tool to make their winter travels safer:  MoDOT's new online Traveler Information Map.

Located at http://www.modot.org/, the Traveler Information Map gives drivers an up-to-the-minute view of road conditions for major Missouri highways before they step foot outside. Conditions for major routes across the state are color-coded to give visitors the information they need at a glance. Green means clear, blue is partly covered, purple is covered and a red snowflake means the road is impassable.

"This internet map can be a lifesaver when winter weather hits," said MoDOT Director Pete Rahn.  "You can find out what road conditions are before you leave the house. Avoiding a slick, snow-covered highway in a storm can make all the difference in the world."

The map shows road conditions for major Missouri cities, counties, MoDOT districts and other travel destinations.  Individual routes can also be selected.  A text report and links to road condition maps for surrounding states are also available on the Traveler Information Map page.

Although the map is updated around the clock during winter events, road conditions can go from bad to worse in an instant.  Drivers are strongly urged to consult other informational sources before heading out in any questionable weather.  Local television and radio stations and the Missouri State Highway Patrol provide information to supplement conditions reported on the map.

Travelers can find the map by visiting MoDOT's Web site at http://www.modot.org/ and clicking on the map at the center of the page, or by going straight to http://maps.modot.mo.gov/travelerinformation