Officials warn of high winds and snow, creating rough driving conditions
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
With high winds and snow in the forecast, officials say driving conditions could deteriorate quickly late Thursday into Friday morning.
MoDOT issued a warning about travel, saying high winds could cause issues.
"With wind gusts up to 40 mph across much of the state Thursday and Friday, drivers should use extra caution in high profile cars and trucks,” Becky Allmeroth, MoDOT chief safety and operations officer said in a release. “Please consider delaying travel if possible until after the storm.”
Assistant Chief of the Boone County Fire Protection District Gale Blomenkamp said the wind can cause several issues.
"Try to stay away from higher-profile vehicles," Blomenkamp said. "If you are driving larger SUVs or van-type vehicles, be prepared for the crosswinds to move you around the road."
The larger your vehicle and the more surface area the sides have will increase the impact the wind has on your car, Blomenkamp explained.
He said the wind paired with the slick roads from snow cause a much more dangerous situation.
"When you are crossing bridges the wind is actually going underneath the road, so when you transition from the bridge back to the roadway you are going to catch a gust of wind that will move your vehicle pretty significantly."
MoDOT is always warning of potential "white-out conditions" because of blowing snow. Blomenkamp said drivers should stay off the roads during this time. If you do get caught in those conditions, Blomenkamp said drivers can put on their flashers, but to avoid stopping.
"If you do need to stop or get off the road take an exit ramp, and stop off an exit ramp, but do not stop on the edge of the road and especially do not stop in the inside if you are on a divided highway," Blomenkamp said.
Several officials say to have supplies in your car, like extra clothes, food, flashlights and more essentials if you do get stuck in the snow.
He also said it is a good idea to let someone know that you are going to be out on the roads before you get out during winter weather.
"If you are traveling to a family members let them know when you are leaving, let them know when they should expect you to be there," Blomenkamp said, "That way if you do get stranded, someone has a way to get ahold of you."
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