Watch for black ice: Kansas City drivers urged to use caution on morning commute
Drivers are urged to use caution as they head out for their morning commute and errands Monday. With black ice likely present on many roads, officials are warning of slick conditions.
After Sunday’s snow and ice melted and overnight temperatures dipped below zero, the National Weather Service warned drivers to watch for slick spots on roads Monday morning.
The Missouri Department of Transportation’s Kansas City District echoed those concerns, warning of refreezing where snow and ice melted on Sunday.
“Dangerously cold temperatures are expected; roadways could refreeze, creating slick conditions,” the transportation department said on X, (formerly Twitter). “Use extra caution if you must be on the roads, especially on bridges and overpasses. Always adjust your driving to the conditions.”
Most major highways in the metro area were partially covered to mostly clear, according to Kansas and Missouri road condition maps. Kansas City Scout traffic cameras showed clear highway lanes in the metro, but shoulders were still packed with snow and ice.
Drivers should slow down and use caution when exiting highways, as ramp conditions may vary.
The Kansas Department of Transportation reported that most highways on the Kansas side had icy spots or wet pavement.
The most challenging part of the commute for many drivers may be getting from their neighborhoods to main roads. Many residential streets remain covered in snow and ice.
According to Kansas City’s snowplow map, most neighborhoods had seen a plow pass within the past eight hours, but some areas hadn’t been cleared for up to 24 hours.
In a Sunday night update, the city said crews were continuing 24-hour plowing operations to clear streets.
“Drivers should proceed with caution on the roads and give any snowplow drivers plenty of space,” the city said. “Residents are advised to stay indoors whenever possible and to prepare for winter weather accordingly.”
This story was originally published January 26, 2026 at 7:22 AM.
