HANNIBAL – From flooding to ice and snow, northeast Missouri drivers will need to pay close attention to the complex weather system beginning today going through Sunday. "This is a complex weather system, annd we are prepared for all facets," said Missouri Department of Transportation District Engineer Paula Gough.
"Heavy rain is predicted for Friday night into Saturday morning in much of the district, so we have crews armed with the tools they need to close any flooded roads," Gough explained. Runoff from the heavy rainfall could cause flash flooding on smaller creeks and streams.
Motorists are warned not to drive into low-water crossings or around barricades blocking flooded roadways.
Friday’s heavy rains could give way to a wintry mix beginning late Friday into Saturday morning and continuing throughout the day. Ice, sleet and freezing rain may precede the snowfall with snow accumulations of 1 to 6 inches across in northeast Mimssouri. "Our equipment and crews are ready to go, and we have plans in place to be flexible depending on the nature of the precipitation," Gough said. She indicated MoDOT plows and treats major roads first, then moves on to the smaller roads.
Heavy rains that are forecasted to precede the ice and snow would wash away the necessary treatments rendering them ineffective. “Crews are ready for any winter precipitation, and we will be staffed as necessary for the duration of the winter event.” she added.
Though the wintry weather should end by Saturday night, motorists should be alert for refreezing overnight Saturday and into Sunday morning. "Temperatures are expected to be in the lower teens, which can make for treacherous driving overnight into Sunday morning," Gough noted. She suggests drivers plan ahead, drive slowly, be alert, and, as always, make sure everyone in your vehicle is buckled up and the driver not use a phone while driving.
To check road conditions and possible closures due to flooding, please go to MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map at http://traveler.modot.org/map/. The map is also available as a free app for Apple and Android devices.
MoDOT also provides road condition information through its Customer Service Center. Dial 888-ASK-MODOT (888-275-6636) to speak with a customer service representative 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.