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Missouri Gov. Parson activates National Guard, temporarily suspends regulations for fuel transport ahead of extreme cold, snow

The first order is a precautionary measure to ensure state resources are available. The second order temporarily relaxes hours that trucks can transport fuel.

ST. LOUIS — Missouri Governor Mike Parson activated the National Guard Tuesday ahead of extremely cold temperatures and winter weather that will slam the state starting Wednesday.

According to a press release, Parson signed Executive Order 22-09 as a precautionary measure to prepare for the impact of the storm. The order activated the Missouri State Emergency Operations Plan and the Missouri National Guard for state and local response efforts. 

The order is a precautionary measure to ensure state resources and Missouri National Guard service members are available to protect life and property and support civilian authorities.

"Extreme cold and hazardous weather conditions are expected to bring varying amounts of snow accumulation, but even more concerning is the bitter cold that is forecasted to impact the entire state," Governor Parson said. "Missourians should be proactive in their preparations and so should the state government, especially during this holiday travel season. We are signing this Order to ensure state resources are available and National Guard members are on standby for any needed response efforts across the state."

On Thursday, temperatures are expected to drop rapidly. Wind chills could be as cold as -40 degrees Fahrenheit in some areas of the state, according to the release. 

Drivers are encouraged to check road conditions before driving to help determine if the trip can be completed safely.

The MoDOT Traveler Information Map app can be downloaded free of charge to smart devices here.

On Wednesday, Parson also signed Executive Order 22-10 temporarily relaxing hours of service regulations for commercial motor vehicles transporting propane heating fuel, according to a press release. 

“With bitter cold temperatures expected to impact much of the state and nation into the holiday weekend, the demand for heating fuel will only rise. We want to do our part to prevent significant fuel distribution delays,” Parson said. “This order will help meet this need and protect the well-being of Missourians by allowing truck drivers more time to distribute propane fuel to homes and businesses across the state.”

Current federal and state regulations limit the number of hours commercial truck drivers can operate to 11 consecutive hours, according to the release.

Executive Order 22-10 temporarily suspends these regulations for motor carriers transporting propane fuel. No other petroleum products or fuels are covered under the order.

The order maintains all other regulations and safety requirements associated with commercial transportation. The order will take effect immediately, and remain in effect until Jan. 3, 2023, unless otherwise extended.

Download the free 5 On Your Side app to get the latest watches and warnings and track conditions live with our interactive radar.

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