Extreme wind, blowing snow hamper visibility on KC metro highways. Avoid or delay travel
The extreme wind and blowing snow from a powerful winter storm limited visibility and made Kansas City area highways slick during Wednesday morning’s rush hour, police agencies reported.
Several weather-related crashes were reported across the metro.
“PLEASE USE CAUTION,” the Missouri Highway Patrol Troop A posted on social media. “We have Troopers on scene of multiple weather related calls. Take it slow, remain focused on driving, and if you can avoid or delay travel, please do!”
The Missouri Department of Transportation’s Kansas City District reported in a 6 a.m. update that the extreme wind and blowing snow were still causing visibility issues.
“Use caution on the bridges, ramps, and overpasses,” the transportation agency said. “Plan your route ahead of time, adjust your driving to the conditions, and take it slow.”
Roads closed in KC metro due to weather, crashes
Southbound Interstate 49 is closed at Missouri 150 in Grandview due to a crash and eastbound Interstate 435 was closed at Roe Avenue in Overland Park after a semi-truck struck downed power lines.
Elsewhere in the metro:
- Northbound and southbound Interstate 35 was closed between Missouri 152 and Missouri 291 in Liberty due to accidents.
- The right lane of southbound Interstate 435 was closed at Missouri 210 in Kansas City.
- The right lane of eastbound Interstate 70 was closed at 57th Street in Kansas City, Kansas.
“Please find alternate routes or stay home due to icy road conditions,” Liberty police posted on social media.
Because of the adverse road conditions, Overland Park Police activated its walk-in report protocol for non-injury crashes.
Blizzard warning expires, winter weather advisory remains
The National Weather Service said light snow continued to fall and gusty winds were causing blowing snow.
The blizzard warning for the metro expired at 6 a.m., but a winter weather advisory replaced it and will remain in effect until 9 a.m. for the KC metro and surrounding areas, the weather service said on social media.
This story was originally published March 5, 2025 at 7:05 AM.
