St. Louis, Missouri – Missouri remains under heightened winter weather concern as lingering cold across the central U.S. keeps the risk for additional snowstorms elevated through mid-February, following one of the most expansive winter systems of the season.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, temperatures across Missouri are expected to remain below normal for an extended stretch. With cold air firmly in place, any storm system moving through the Plains or Midwest would likely bring snow, and longer-range outlooks continue to support an active pattern capable of producing heavy accumulations.
The concern follows Winter Storm Fern, a massive system that swept from Texas to Maine and impacted more than two dozen states. Fern delivered widespread snowfall across Missouri, with many areas reporting well over a foot of snow, particularly across northern and central sections of the state. Travel deteriorated rapidly along Interstates 70, 44, 55, and 35, while snow-covered secondary roads caused delays for emergency responders and commuters alike.
As cold conditions linger, communities from St. Louis and Kansas City to Columbia, Jefferson City, and Springfield could face renewed disruptions if similarly strong systems develop. Missouri Department of Transportation crews warn that repeated snow events can quickly strain plowing and treatment operations, especially during overnight and early morning hours when temperatures remain well below freezing and snow compacts into ice.
Emergency management officials are urging residents to prepare now by checking heating systems, stocking winter emergency kits, and ensuring vehicles are equipped with blankets, food, and water. Drivers are encouraged to avoid non-essential travel during snow events and to monitor MoDOT road condition updates closely.
While the exact timing of future storms remains uncertain, forecasters say the broader pattern supports continued winter impacts. Additional advisories and alerts may be issued as confidence increases, with cold air and the threat of heavy snow likely remaining a persistent concern across Missouri through mid-February.
