MoDOT to Hold Annual Winter Operations Drill Thursday

Jefferson City, Mo. (KFMO) - With winter weather just around the corner, the Missouri Department of Transportation is preparing to keep roads safe through its annual winter operations drill, set for Thursday, October 16.

MoDOT Area Engineer Corbin Carlton says crews have been getting ready for weeks as the department ensures equipment and staff are prepared for whatever winter brings.

Motorists may notice an increased number of MoDOT trucks and plows on state routes during the drill, which begins at 8 a.m. in rural areas and 9 a.m. in urban areas. The statewide exercise is expected to wrap up by 3 p.m.

Carlton says the annual drill helps train both new and returning drivers on snow routes, communications, and equipment operation, an especially important step this year as the department continues to face turnover and staffing shortages.