A significant winter storm has swept across the Midwest, wreaking havoc on travel and daily life, particularly in Missouri and Kansas, where snow accumulation and freezing temperatures posed serious challenges. On January 5, 2025, the storm brought heavy snowfall, with predictions of 8 to 12 inches of snow for Kansas City, and even more for areas north—up to 18 inches near U.S. 136 in northern Missouri. With such dire forecasts, the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) urged residents to avoid travel during the peak storm conditions, stating clearly, "Travel is not advised today."
Motorists brave enough to venture out were met with treacherous conditions. On Sunday evening, the Missouri State Highway Patrol announced the closure of Interstate 29 between Rockport and 71 Highway due to severe weather impacts. Officials indicated they would begin sweeping the area and providing assistance to stranded drivers. The dire conditions, marked by drifting snow and poor visibility, prompted safety advisories across the region, with travel advisories becoming common.
The Joplin area, which was also greatly affected, observed worsening weather as winds picked up and the freezing line advanced southward. Local officials from Cherokee County noted significant ice accumulation and were actively responding to the situation as conditions deteriorated. According to traveler.modot.org, "Impacts from the storm are widespread. This event is bringing every type of winter weather: heavy snow, freezing rain and ice. Our crews are out, but the precipitation isn't stopping anytime soon. Do not travel in these conditions!"
Public works departments across various jurisdictions raced to clear priority roads. The city of Columbia was proactive, employing 33 snowplow operators since early Sunday morning to keep key thoroughfares manageable. Columbia Public Works reminded residents of their duty to clear sidewalks adjacent to properties, citing the need for community cooperation during snowy conditions.
At Columbia Regional Airport, operations faced significant interruptions, with no commercial flights scheduled due to the adverse weather. City officials mentioned they were working diligently to prepare runways for future operations, demonstrating the widespread impact of this winter storm.
The harsh reality of the storm was compounded by power outages reported across central and southeastern Missouri. Emergency services emphasized the importance of preparedness to face potential power loss, urging residents to keep their phones charged and utilize safety protocols for heating during outages. "Winds become increasingly gusty this afternoon...producing blowing snow, reducing visibilities to one mile or less," warned the National Weather Service Springfield, reiteration the dangers present even when visibility improves.
Community members’ safety is being prioritized, with local authorities reminding residents about emergency contact services. Motorists needing assistance on Missouri highways and interstates are encouraged to call *55 to receive help. State troopers have increased their presence to aid those stuck on the roadways as conditions remained unpredictable.
The Missouri Department of Transportation urged caution for those who had to travel. They provided resources for drivers to check real-time road conditions via their MoDOT Traveler Map, which highlights covered highways and closures. Using this online tool, motorists can determine whether their route is clear or impassable. Several additional alerts suggested leaving ample space between vehicles, being especially wary of icy bridges and ramps, and ensuring visibility by using headlights during snowy conditions.
Overall, responding to the winter storm of 2025 has undoubtedly tested local officials and emergency services. “It’s been a very challenging event so far,” said Britt Smith, operations division director for Jefferson City Public Works, emphasizing the struggle they faced amid the storm.
With conditions continuing to evolve, local authorities remain vigilant, urging everyone to monitor updates regularly and exercise caution when considering travel. The combination of heavy snow, freezing rain, and intense gusts means the Midwest's residents face significant disruption as they navigate the aftermath of this winter storm.