KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) – Due to an ongoing snowstorm, the Kansas Department of Transportation issued an emergency warning asking people to avoid driving on all roads.

“Please do not drive on Kansa roads unless it is an emergency. It is very dangerous for you and our emergency services staff. Stay home. Stay safe,” KDOT’s emergency alert said.

The emergency alert was sent to cell phones across the state.

It was issued after KDOT had already closed all state highways and highways on Sunday.

Due to poor visibility, impassable conditions and extreme winter weather, the Kansas Department of Transportation announced that all state highways are closed in 16 counties:

• Washington
• clay
• Geary
• Dickinson
• Morris
• Marion
• chase
• McPherson
• saline solution
• Ellsworth
• Lincoln
• Ottawa
• Mitchell
• republic
• Cloud
• jewel
• Marshall
• Nemaha
• Brown
• Doniphan
• Riley
• Pottawatomie
• Jackson
• Atchison
• Wabaunsee
• Shawnee
• Jefferson
• Leavenworth
• Wyandotte
• Douglas
• Johnson
• Lyons
• Osage
• Osage

Motorists were urged to immediately adjust their travel plans.

“This is a major nationwide winter weather event,” said Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed. “We appreciate the public’s cooperation in staying off the roads so our teams can focus on reopening the routes as quickly and safely as possible. KDOT is working diligently under these difficult conditions.”

Additionally, KDOT said I-70 was closed in both directions from Hays to the Missouri state line in Kansas City.

Drivers have been warned to expect closures across the state as the storm continues to move across the Sunflower State.

Crews said they would continue to work to reopen roads as priority was given to major routes. Progress will depend heavily on current weather conditions.

Those currently stuck on Kansas roads can call *47 for Kansas Highway Patrol Dispatch. Once a location is specified, emergency services will be dispatched.

KDOT has urged drivers to follow the instructions of emergency personnel and seek assistance to determine the best course of action.

Drivers were advised to have emergency kits ready, including clothing, blankets, food, water and other essentials.

Those on the roads can check KanDrive for up-to-date information on statewide highway conditions.

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