ST. LOUIS — Missouri's first snow of the season may mainly drop on Interstate 70 in the eastern half of the state on Saturday, affecting countless travelers driving home after Thanksgiving.
The vast majority of areas seeing any snow at all will only see a light dusting of up to an inch, according to the National Weather Service's St. Louis office. But, the incoming system may have a narrow band of heavier snow of up to three inches.
Meteorologists said that band may form right over the I-70 corridor and cause the highest hazards in the system, depending on how dry the air is before snow falls.
"Dry low-level air may delay snow starting to fall, leading to values near the low end of the ranges," NWS said.
AAA Missouri previously shared its top winter driving tips with 5 On Your Side, including:
- Turn your headlights on
- Allow three times more space between your car and the car in front of you
- Brake gently to avoid skidding
- Be especially careful on bridges and overpasses, which freeze earlier than roads
- Use caution on infrequently traveled roads, which aren't cleared as often
The VERIFY team also recently dug into five fast facts that help drivers navigate slick roads during the winter season, including:
- If you skid, look and steer in the direction you want to go.
- Avoid using cruise control on icy roads.
- Carry a shovel, and sand, kitty litter, or other items in your car that can create traction.
- Keep your tires properly inflated.
- Create an emergency winter supply kit for your car.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends these items go into vehicles' emergency kits:
- A snow shovel, snow brush, and ice scraper
- Flashlight
- Blankets
- Boots, mittens, and warm clothes
- Bags of sand or kitty litter for traction
- Tow rope
- Water and snacks
- First aid kit
- Jumper cables
- Tire chains or snow tires
- Flares
- A flashlight
- A cellphone charger