The National Weather Service has placed Henry County under a Winter Storm Watch from 6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 23, through 6 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 25, as a strong winter system is expected to move through the region. Forecasters say heavy snow is possible, with total accumulations up to five inches, and travel could become very difficult during periods of heavier snowfall.
Across southern and central Missouri, significant snowfall is expected to begin Friday evening, with the heaviest totals forecast south of the Interstate 70 corridor. Snow could continue through Saturday and Sunday, and the National Weather Service warns travel may become “very difficult to impossible” in heavily impacted areas.
The Missouri Department of Transportation has activated its statewide winter weather response and plans to have crews fully deployed throughout the storm. Officials say equipment and personnel will be shifted to the hardest-hit areas as conditions develop, though extreme cold and heavy snowfall could limit the effectiveness of some road treatments.
“Our crews and equipment are ready, and we’ll be working around the clock to keep roads as clear as possible,” MoDOT Director Ed Hassinger said in a statement. “But we can’t do it alone. We need the public’s help. Please plan ahead. Once snow starts falling, stay put and give our crews time to work. Conditions will be challenging, and your cooperation is critical to keeping everyone safe.”
City and county crews are reminding motorists that designated Snow Emergency Routes must remain clear during snow events so plows and emergency vehicles can operate safely. Phase I routes include MO Business 13/2nd Street from the north junction to Highway 13 and Calvird Drive, Ohio Street from Montgomery to Vansant, and Gaines Drive from Highway 13 to Highways 7 and 13. Phase II routes include Franklin and Jefferson streets from 2nd to Water, Main and Washington streets from Green to Ohio, 8th Street from Ohio to Bodine, Clinton and Bodine streets from 2nd to 8th, and 6th Street from Ohio to Clinton. Drivers are asked to avoid parking along these routes during snow emergencies.
MoDOT is also encouraging drivers to check road conditions before traveling using its Traveler Information Map or mobile app, and to stay updated through official advisories as the storm approaches.
