It wasn't a blizzard like last week's storm, but the snow that struck Springfield on Wednesday made for dangerous driving conditions and contributed to numerous accidents and at least one traffic fatality, officials said.
The snow also prompted warnings about guarding against falls on slick surfaces and a reminder that there's a city ordinance requiring that sidewalks be cleared of snow.
Although at just over two inches, the snowfall was far less intense than last week's 10-incher, the rate of traffic accidents was similar -- if not greater -- and prompted police to go on emergency status.
Springfield Police Cpl. Matt Brown said police responded to about the same number of accidents on Wednesday as were reported last Tuesday when storm conditions made visibility near zero at times.
The storm also prompted the Missouri Department of Transportation to warn drivers about road conditions, which were particularly difficult south of Springfield because of the snowstorm's main track that moved through Northern Arkansas.
Because of freezing conditions, it's likely the latest snow will cover some roads into today, according to MoDOT.
In addition to poor driving conditions, some noticed more travelers were willing to brave the storm this week.
"Looking at the cameras, I can tell the traffic is heavier than last week," said Rena Rippe, of the city's transportation management center. "There was hardly anybody on the roads then."
Sgt. Dan Bracker of the Missouri Highway Patrol also said a higher number of accidents were occurring Wednesday.
"Last week, most people took heed of the warnings and stayed off the road."
Motorists in Taney County seemed to do just that, said county emergency manager Chris Berndt.
The southern portion of the county got about 10 inches of snow, while the northern part saw a 5-inch snowfall, he said.
A Western Taney County Fire Protection District responded to a report a car went off Missouri 176 and into Lake Taneycomo between Rockaway Beach and Forsyth, Berndt said.
Provided By: newsleader.com
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