Parts of I-44 shut down due to crashes. SPD asks drivers to stay off snow-covered roads

This story has been updated to include more up-to-date information.

Several accidents along Interstate 44 had resulted in portions of the highway being closed as snow continues to fall in southwest Missouri. As of 6 p.m. all lanes are fully open though remain covered by snow.

Springfield police warned that, as snow continues to fall and accumulate, it is creating dangerous road conditions alongside wind gusts that reduce visibility.

Westbound I-44 just east of Highway 65 was closed starting at 3:40 p.m., according to the Missouri Department of Transportation travel information map. The closure, past Exit 82B U.S. 65 North/Sedalia at mile marker 82.6, was due to a vehicle crash.

Another closure due to a vehicle crash was also reported at I-44 westbound past Exit 80 to Business 44/RTE H Glenstone Avenue. Springfield Police Department chief spokesperson Cris Swaters said the westbound ramp from Glenstone onto I-44 was also closed. Eastbound traffic was open as of about 4:30 p.m.

More: Have to get on the road in the snow? Here’s how to prepare, check road conditions

On the west side of Springfield, several delays were expected on I-44 due to two non-injury vehicle accidents. One was near the I-44 and Kansas Expressway interchange while the other was only slightly further west past Exit 77. Both of these have been cleared as of 5 p.m.

SPD is urging people to not get on the roads if possible as road conditions continue to deteriorate.

Marta Mieze covers local government at the News-Leader. Have feedback, tips or story ideas? Contact her at mmieze@news-leader.com.

This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Interstate 44 partially closed due to snow, crashes around Springfield