Colder Temps Make Icy Roads

Dropping temperatures could lead to more slick roads through the night and into the morning commute. While the more traveled roads such at I-70 and Highways 63 and 54 were fairly clear by 10:30 p.m., streets in neighborhoods were pretty icy at the same time.Even with crews out plowing and salting roads overnight, the elements were perfect for slick spots.”Drifting has been our big problem today [Thursday], in a lot of instances as soon as we plow it off it blows right back on,” said Jason Shafer with the Missouri Department of Transportation.That drift, plus colder conditions have emergency crews worried for drivers Thursday night and Friday morning.”Any moisture slush that’s on the roadway will probably re-freeze if it doesn’t have much vehicle traffic on it,” said Cpt. John Metz with the Columbia Fire Department.MoDOT had crews putting salt down all day and Thursday night all 225 trucks did the same thing through Mid-Missouri. However, if the wet roads turn into black ice, cars may lose control.Now officials urge drivers to either stay inside or take precautions. They ask drivers to slow down, use their lights and keep a good distance between vehicles.”Just because the speed limit says 70 does not mean today’s a good day to do it,” said Shafer.MoDOT said the wind also caused debris, trees, and signs to fall onto roads.