ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. — Officials are asking St. Louis County residents to be patient as crews work to treat and plow roads with fewer trucks during this weekend’s winter storm.

Crews will be working in 12-hour shifts around the clock, but with 20 less truck drivers to help, which will slow down the clearing process, according to Ryan Pierce, operations division manager.

“Retaining and recruiting our drivers for our snow plows is a challenge,” said Sam Page, St. Louis County executive.

Page said he is hopeful that funds will be made available for raises this year.

Arterial roads will be addressed first, followed by low volume streets, according to Stephanie Leon Streeter, director of the Department of Transportation and Public Works.

While officials advise people to stay home during the winter storm, Streeter said drivers should be mindful of snow removal crews and to give them plenty of space on the road.

“We’re going to try to address the streets as quickly as we can,” Streeter said. “We’re going to need your patience as we get through all of the work that we have to do.”

Pierce mentioned vehicles should be moved off the streets for better snow removal.

Michele Ryan, director of Emergency Management, advised people to prepare their homes by protecting pipes, insulating doors and windows and checking heat sources.

There is a chance for power outages and Ryan mentioned having extra blankets, batteries, flash lights, first-aid kits, snacks and other essentials on hand.

Page mentioned that the county’s warming shelters are open, including the Salvation Army’s warming shelter. For more information, call 211.

St. Louis County’s emergency management helpline can be reached by texting SLCOEM to 78015.