Ice storm warning issued for portions of Southeast Missouri including Scott County

SIKESTON — An ice storm warning remains in effect early Sunday through Monday for portions of Southeast Missouri including Sikeston.

The National Weather Service in Paducah, Kentucky, issued an ice storm warning from 2 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 5 to 6 a.m. Monday, Jan. 6 for portions of southern Illinois, western Kentucky and southeast Missouri.

Significant icing is expected with total snow and sleet accumulations up to 2 inches and ice accumulations between one-quarter and three-quarters of an inch for Missouri counties of Scott, Perry, Bollinger, Cape Girardeau, Wayne and Carter and including the cities of Cape Girardeau, Piedmont, Sikeston, Van Buren and Marble Hill.

Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous. Significant ice accumulation on power lines and tree limbs may cause widespread and long-lasting power outages, the Weather Service said. Expect power outages and tree damage due to the ice. Travel could be impossible.

An arctic blast will also arrive Monday and last through most of the week, the Weather Service said. Wind chill values will drop into the single digits or below zero at times, which can be even more dangerous with any long duration power outages.

According to the Weather Service, travel is strongly discouraged.

“If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency,” the Weather Service said. “Prepare for possible power outages.”

The latest road conditions can be obtained by visiting www.weather.gov/pah/roads

Persons should delay all travel if possible. If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution and be prepared for sudden changes in visibility.

“Leave plenty of room between you and the motorist ahead of you, and allow extra time to reach your destination. Avoid sudden braking or acceleration, and be especially cautious on hills or when making turns. Make sure your car is winterized and in good working order,” the Weather Service said.

Do not touch downed lines and individuals should report any power outages to their electric company. Travel is highly discouraged due to slick roadways and the possibility of downed trees and power lines, the Weather Service said.