Snow blankets Kansas and Missouri. Here’s how to see road conditions across the states

If you have go out while the snow is coming down in Kansas and Missouri, you should at least check the road conditions before you drive.

During major snowfall or ice events, the Missouri and Kansas departments of transportation often advocate avoiding travel if you can, since driving can be dangerous. Staying off the roads could also make it easier for plows and other snow-clearing vehicles to do their jobs without interruption.

But if you need to drive, there are state, local and other resources to help you check road conditions in the Kansas City region before you go.

How to check road conditions in Missouri

You can check if snow accumulated on Missouri highways with the MoDOT Traveler Map. The website’s winter weather data shows you road closures and highway conditions — green means clear from snow and purple is covered.

You can also use the site through an app — search “MoDOT Traveler Information” on your app store.

Call ‪(888) 275-6636‬ for roadway information and sign up for MoDOT’s email and text alerts on the department’s website.

How to check road conditions in Kansas

For Kansas highway conditions and cameras showing the current conditions, you can consult the KanDrive map.

For winter weather information, a blue road is partially covered with snow, purple means completely covered and brown indicates “seasonal roadway conditions,” meaning you should be alert for winter weather.

You can also use the site through an app — search “KanDrive” on your app store — and call 511 for roadway information.

If you click on a road, you can then look through traffic camera images showing its current condition at various points.

How to check if Kansas City roads have been plowed

To see if a Kansas City road has been plowed, you can check the city of Kansas City’s Snow Plow map, which tracks the last time roadways were treated.

Other tips for driving in snow

Navigation apps like Google Maps, Apple Maps and Waze collect real-time information on traffic slowdowns and collisions.

Even if you know your route, apps can help anticipate hazards.

Once you have checked your route, follow these winter weather driving tips from the Missouri State Highway Patrol:

• Leave plenty of space between your vehicle and the one in front of you.
• Watch out for icy bridges and ramps.
• Clear all the snow off your car before driving.
• Use your headlights for visibility.

The Star’s Robert Cronkleton contributed to this story.

This story was originally published January 5, 2025 at 9:59 AM.