ST. LOUIS — The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) urges drivers to plan and travel ahead of the severe winter weather expected this weekend.

Crews will put treatment down on the roads as the storm starts happening Saturday night to prevent it from freezing, according to Bob Becker, district maintenance engineer for MoDOT St. Louis.

He said moisture also can cause the treatment to dilute, making the roads slick.

Bridges and overpasses are the first to freeze, Becker said, advising motorists to drive slowly and watch out for other vehicles.

He added to watch out for down trees and power lines that the storm may cause.

Interstates will be plowed first, followed by high to low volume roads and finally state number and letter routes, according to Michelle Forneris, MoDOT assistant district engineer.

“Unless it’s absolutely necessary to travel, we are urging drivers to decide where you want to be before the storm starts,” Forneris said, adding that they should stay there until Monday.

If traveling, she mentioned to be mindful of several work zones in the St. Louis region, including:

  • I-55 between Route Z and U.S. 67 in Jefferson County,
  • I-55 in St. Louis City near Loughborough and the St. Louis County line
  • I-270 between U.S. 64 and Ladue
  • I-270 between Riverview and the Chain of Rocks Bridge, going to and from Illinois

Drivers additionally are advised to make room for plows and trucks treating the roads.

Cpl. Dallas Thompson said the Missouri State Highway Patrol has been planning for the weather storm and will have troopers out throughout the weekend.

For those who are traveling, he said cars should have extra supplies, such as blankets, snacks, cellphone chargers and first-aid kits.

Thompson added that vehicles should have a full tank of gas and wiper blades should be in working order.

Dial *55 for help.

If motorists do need help, Thompson urged for them to stay inside their vehicle as there have been “a lot” of pedestrians struck after being involved in a crash.

For latest on road conditions, visit the MoDOT traveler information map.