Round Two Of Snowy Weather Hits Hard
Heavy, wet snow fell across the area early this morning.
Paula Gough with the Missouri Department of Transportation said there was a lot of snow all at once after 6 a.m. She said the biggest problem during this round of weather was the constant wind.
"It's a real concern," she said early this morning, adding there are places they plowed and then the snow immediately "drifted right back up." MODOT issued a "no travel" advisory.
Mike Kindhart with the Illinois State Police said this morning interstate and state highways in Western Illinois were snow covered and visibility in some places was down to a tenth of a mile. He said north-south roads had drifted shut.
Hannibal City Manager Jeff LaGarce said snowplows started on the City's streets a little after 4 a.m. He encouraged people to stay inside and be safe. Last week, he said, there were "bottle necks" in traffic due to people becoming stuck on snow-covered roads.
"Stay inside and let this pass," he added.
Quincy Mayor John Spring declared a snow emergency in the City Monday night, meaning vehicles on the designated roads needed to be moved. And at least 710 Adams County residents were without power as of 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, but nearly all was restored by 11 a.m.
The winter storm warning is in effect until 6 p.m. Tuesday.
Kindhart stressed the following weather travel tips:
- Watch out for black ice – roads that appear clear but actually are ice covered;
- Dress warm and take a cell phone in case of emergency;
- Slow down and increase your following distance, be cautious when approaching intersections, off ramps, and bridges;
- Always keep your gas tank two-thirds full to prevent the vehicle’s fuel line from freezing;
- Plan ahead, allow extra time to your destination, make sure others are aware of your travel route;
- Look ahead for and anticipate possible hazards;
- Understand the posted speed limit is too fast for driving conditions;
- Wear a seat belt;
- Always carry an emergency car care kit that contains jumper cables, flares or reflectors, windshield washer fluids, small ice scraper, traction material, blankets, non perishable food and a first aid kit.