The National Weather Service has issued a Blizzard Warning, effective until early Monday morning, marking the first such warning for the region since November 2018.
Current Weather Conditions
On Saturday, the area was primarily affected by freezing rain, leading to hazardous icy road conditions.
By Sunday morning, the situation escalated with heavy snowfall accompanied by strong winds.
Some parts of the metro are anticipating snow accumulations between 10 to 15 inches, exacerbating travel difficulties and increasing the risk of power outages due to the weight of the snow on power lines and trees.
Impact on Transportation and Events
The severe weather has led to numerous disruptions:
- Air Travel: Kansas City International Airport has reported multiple flight delays and cancellations. Travelers are advised to check their flight status before heading to the airport.
- Road Closures: Several roads have been blocked or deemed impassable due to snow accumulation and accidents. The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) is actively working to clear major highways and has urged residents to avoid non-essential travel.
- Event Cancellations: Many Sunday events have been canceled or postponed in response to the hazardous conditions. Residents are encouraged to check with event organizers for the latest updates.
School Closures
Given the current conditions and forecasts, many local school districts are considering extending the holiday break. Parents and students should monitor school communications for announcements regarding closures or shifts to virtual learning.
Safety Recommendations
Authorities strongly recommend that residents stay indoors and avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. For those who must venture out, consider the following precautions:
- Road Conditions: Check real-time road conditions through MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map before traveling.
- Snow Plow Tracking: Kansas City’s Public Works Department provides a Snow Map that shows the real-time locations of snow plows, helping residents understand which roads have been cleared.
- Emergency Kits: If travel is unavoidable, ensure your vehicle is equipped with an emergency kit, including blankets, food, water, and a flashlight.
- Home Preparedness: Prepare for potential power outages by charging electronic devices, having flashlights ready, and keeping a supply of non-perishable food and water.
City Services and Snow Removal
Kansas City’s Snow Team, comprising over 400 employees and 300 trucks, is actively working to clear the 6,400 lane miles across 103 routes in the city. Residents can track the progress of snow removal in their neighborhoods through the city’s Snow Map.
The Public Works Department reminds residents and businesses to clear sidewalks adjacent to their properties, as required by the city’s municipal code. This effort ensures safe passage for pedestrians and helps city services operate more efficiently.
Stay Informed
Residents are encouraged to stay informed about the latest weather updates and advisories through local news outlets and official city channels.
Signing up for emergency alerts via AlertKC and following the city’s social media accounts can provide timely information during this severe weather event.
By adhering to these guidelines and staying informed, Kansas City residents can navigate the challenges posed by this significant winter storm safely.
Tags: Blizzard Warning, Kansas City, Kansas City International Airport delays, winter storm impact
