Gov. Jay Nixon declared a state of emergency in Missouri Thursday in response to the severe winter storm hammering the state.
The storm system has been dumping a mix of snow and sleet since early Thursday morning. Weather forecasts predict parts of the state could see up to 10 inches of snow. Many roads and highways already are covered with snow.
Nixon’s emergency management team has been keeping the governor up to speed with the latest information on the storm and its effects. The State Emergency Operations Center has been monitoring the storm system since Wednesday.
“A severe winter storm continues to bear down on communities across the state,” Nixon said in a release. “Missouri stands ready to help communities in need and to deploy the resources to keep folks safe. I urge all Missourians to keep a close eye on the weather and avoid unnecessary travel.”
Nixon has also activated the Missouri State Emergency Operation Plan, which allows state agencies to coordinate directly with local jurisdictions to provide emergency services.
You can follow KBIA’s live blog of storm coverage here.
