Region braces for more snowfall, cold

First ice then snow and now it looks as if Mother Nature plans to continue to blast away at the Bootheel.

A strong winter storm blanketed the area with snow on Monday, leading to many travel problems and cancelation of most events.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported 161 calls for service Monday with 112 of those stranded motorist calls. There were 13 accidents with no injuries or deaths.

Travel is strongly discouraged but those needing to get out can check road conditions at: traveler.modot.org.

However the winter weather isn’t gone yet. Freezing cold remained Tuesday with high of 15 expected with wind chill values as low as -14.

According to the National Weather Service, significant amounts of precipitation are likely Wednesday evening into Thursday. The highest chances of snow are expected in Southeast Missouri, Southern Illinois and parts of western Kentucky.

Forecasters warned of the “potential of significant impacts, especially if impacts linger from the snow event on Monday.”

The NWS predicted snow to start moving in early Wednesday morning with 1-3 inches of additional snow forecast for the area between midnight and noon Wednesday. A chance of snow and freezing rain will continue into Wednesday night and Thursday before the system moves out of the area Thursday night.

__Sikeston__

The Warming Center in Sikeston and is open for people needing a warm place to go. The Center is in need of new and gently used blankets and comforters for the Center and those families without heat. Donations can be dropped at the front door between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.

__New Madrid__

In the case of power outages, the city of New Madrid will open the community building at 1199 Mill St. to the public.

Law enforcement officials advised that those who are oxygen dependent or have medical equipment that has to have electricity should call dispatch at 573-748-6227 to have their names added to a list.

“If an emergency occurs. We will do what we can to help keep you safe during this time,” according to the New Madrid Police Department. “As always, if it is an emergency please call 911.”

__Portageville__

The city of Portageville urged its residents to check on the elderly and those most at risk during this time.

“If you cannot, or have concerns about someone’s well being during this event, you can contact the Portageville Police Department at 573-379-5682,” officials said.

__East Prairie__

According to the East Prairie Police Department a local warming center is being set up for those in need in East Prairie. Those needing more information can contact the East Prairie Police Department for more details.

__Tips for traveling__

Also the National Weather Service has provided safety tips for those who must travel during or following the snow events. These include:

• Don’t use cruise control when driving on any slippery road surface;

• Accelerate, decelerate and brake slowly rather than using quick maneuvers. This will reduce skidding and sliding;

• Avoid changing lanes unless needed and use the lane most recently plowed;

• Increase the distance between your car and the car in front of you when driving on slippery surfaces;

• Use extra caution on bridges, overpasses, intersections and shaded areas. These pose additional driving risks;

• Put down cell phones and avoid other distractions. Winter driving requires more concentration; pay full attention to the road;

• Four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive enhance vehicle safety but will not prevent accidents. And finally and perhaps most importantly,

• Slow down.