Kansas City Area Faces Snowfall Warnings and Traffic Disruptions

News Summary

Kansas City is grappling with severe snowfall following an overnight storm, leading to hazardous driving conditions across major highways. Visibility is reduced, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol is addressing numerous weather-related incidents. Tragic accidents have occurred, including a fatal crash on I-435. Over 120 schools have closed or shifted to virtual learning due to icy conditions. Road crews are working tirelessly to maintain safety on the roads, but continued vigilance is necessary as temperatures remain low and travel may still be risky.

Kansas City Area Faces Snowfall Warnings and Traffic Disruptions Following Overnight Storm

Well, Kansas City folks, it looks like winter has decided to make its presence known! After a wild overnight storm blanketed the area, heavy snowfall warnings are now in effect for several highways and local roads. So, strap in, because we’ve got a lot to cover about the slippery situation unfolding.

Snow Alert!

As the sun rose this morning, many residents woke up to a frosty scene with about two inches of slippery, wet snow covering the ground. While that might look picturesque from your window, it’s certainly wreaking havoc on our roads. Major highways, including I-35, I-29, and I-435, are experiencing some serious visibility reductions and treacherous driving conditions.

Roads That Need Extra Caution

If you plan to hit the road today, be cautious, especially on specific stretches that have already seen significant disturbances:

• Westbound I-35 in Lenexa, from 75th Street/Exit 227 to West 87th Street/Exit 225 (0.91 miles) has been struggling since 1:33 a.m.
• Southbound I-29 in Kansas City from 72nd Street/Exit 6 to I-35 (5.39 miles) reported issues starting at 1:01 a.m.
• Northbound I-29 in Kansas City between I-35 and MO-45/64th Street/Exit 5 (4.80 miles) saw concerns raised at 1:26 a.m.
• Westbound I-35 in Merriam, from Antioch Road/Exit 230 to 75th Street/Exit 227 (1.87 miles) dealt with problems reported at 1:19 a.m.
• Eastbound I-35 in Lenexa from 119th Street/Exit 220 to 95th Street/Exit 224 (1.61 miles) got flagged at 1:25 a.m.
• Southbound I-35 in Pleasant Valley from MO-152/Exit 16 to I-29/US-71/Exit 8 (5.75 miles) reported issues from 12:32 a.m.

Additionally, heavy snowfall has also been noted on Northeast 46th Terrace, U.S. 69, and various stretches of I-670, leading to slower traffic and increased risk of accidents.

Traffic Troubles and Safety Concerns

The Missouri State Highway Patrol has been on its toes, dealing with an influx of weather-related calls. In fact, they’ve handled around 47 incidents including numerous stranded vehicles and minor crashes. It appears that a broken-down vehicle on South 24th Street has caused a jam for nearly 830 feet, and reports continue to flow as the day progresses.

Tragically, a serious accident occurred involving a red Honda SUV on I-435 that resulted in two fatalities and one individual sustaining critical injuries. This news underscores the significant dangers posed by these wintery conditions, so please drive with care.

School Closures and Virtual Learning

It’s not just the highways that are feeling the effects of this storm—over a whopping 122 school closures or virtual learning notifications have been announced due to icy conditions in the area. Parents and students should check with their local schools for specific instructions and updates as we move through the day.

Road Crews are on the Move

While all of this chaos unfolds, the Department of Transportation is hard at work treating the roads to make them safer for everyone. Crews will be active throughout the day to clear the snow and improve those slick surfaces. However, with temperatures expected to stay below freezing for the next several days, weather-related delays will likely continue to be an issue.

Stay Safe and Warm!

So, whether you’re heading out to run errands, trying to get to work, or just being adventurous, please stay cautious and drive safely. Remember, Kansas City, it’s always better to take it slow and stay safe than to rush and risk an accident. Keep warm, stay updated on the road conditions, and enjoy the season—just maybe from inside your cozy home!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Kansas City Area Schools Cancel Classes Due to Winter Weather
Multiple Kansas City School Districts Closed Due to Snow
Kansas City Faces More Snow Days as Schools Adapt to Weather
Hickman Mills South Middle School Renamed in Honor of Alvin Brooks
Winter Weather Cancels Classes Across Kansas City
Kansas City Bracing for Major Winter Storm and Record Cold
Severe Winter Storm Forces School Closures Across Kansas City Metro
Tri-State Area Faces Severe Winter Storm Challenges
Extreme Cold Watch Issued in North Texas
Cold Weather and Snow Return to the Pikes Peak Region

Additional Resources

• Kansas City Star: Traffic Update
• Wikipedia: Winter Storm
• Kansas City Star: Weather News
• Google Search: Kansas City Traffic
• KSHB News: Snow Moves into Kansas City
• Google Scholar: Winter Weather Impact
• Kansas City Star: Traffic Alerts
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather Events
• Fox Weather: Kansas City Snow Travel Woes
• Google News: Kansas City School Closures