The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) has announced the closure of all state highways across Douglas and 31 additional counties due to one of the largest winter storms to hit the region.
KDOT made this announcement on Sunday afternoon, stating closures included major routes such as I-70. Affected counties span from Marshall and Nemaha to Lyon and Marion, encompassing several areas including Riley, Pottawatomie, Jackson, Atchison, Wabaunsee, Shawnee, Jefferson, Leavenworth, Wyandotte, Douglas, Johnson, and more. The list potentially covers all areas hit by severe winter weather conditions.
Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed addressed the public about the situation. “This is a major, statewide winter weather event,” he said. He also expressed gratitude toward the public for their cooperation during such challenging conditions, urging them to stay off the roads and allow KDOT crews to work effectively at reopening routes.
Motorists are advised to alter their travel plans immediately due to hazardous conditions resulting from this severe storm. According to KDOT, crews are already deployed to clear highways, with priorities on major routes, depending significantly on current weather conditions.
For those who may be stranded during these weather-induced closures, KDOT has recommended contacting *47 for assistance from Kansas Highway Patrol Dispatch. The agency emphasized providing specific locations for quicker help, which is particularly important during such adverse weather events.
Travelers are also encouraged to prepare emergency kits containing essentials like warm clothing, blankets, food and water, as conditions may deteriorate unexpectedly. KDOT has stressed the need for motorists to follow guidance from emergency personnel, enhancing the potential for safer travel.
To keep updated on the status of highway conditions throughout Kansas, residents can visit kandrive.gov, where relevant information about closures and weather conditions is regularly updated.
The impact of this winter storm is widespread, affecting both residents and travel across Kansas, making precautions and alerts imperative for public safety.