Brace for a Week of Below Freezing Temperatures
/Bitter cold and light snow chances will stay in our area all week, and that means hazardous conditions as roads may remain icy and wind chills become dangerous to those who are outside for a long period of time.
According to KPGZ Chief Meteorologist Pete Chaston, chances of snow and freezing drizzle stay in the forecast for the rest of the day Monday and overnight into Tuesday, otherwise it will be mostly cloudy, with a low around zero. North northeast winds blowing 6 to 8 mph will give us wind chill values between -6 and -11.
The rest of the week remains the same with high temperatures in the lower teens, overnight lows in the single digits and wind chill values at zero or below.
The combination of snow, freezing drizzle or rain and single digit temperatures on Monday have led to slick roads and bridges. MoDOT crews closed northbound Interstate 35 past Missouri 152 for a while this morning due to hazardous conditions.
Chemicals used to treat the roads lose their effectiveness in the bitterly cold temperatures that are expected to remain through much this week. Any thawing that occurs during daylight hours will likely refreeze overnight causing patches of black ice and slippery road conditions, particularly on elevated surfaces like bridges and overpasses. Slow down and allow yourself extra time when you must drive.
The National Weather Service recommends these tips for winter weather and freezing weather advisories:
*Minimize travel
*Stay indoors during the worst part of the extreme cold
*Keep a winter survival kit in your vehicle if you must travel
*Check tire pressure, antifreeze levels, heater/defroster, etc.
*Learn how to shut off water valves for potential pipe bursts
*Check on the elderly
*Bring pets inside
*Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing, and a hat
*Mittens, snug at the wrist, are better than gloves
*Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extreme cold
*Try to stay dry and out of the wind
KPGZ News – Brian Watts Contributed to this Story