A first round of snow started falling around mid-Missouri Saturday morning, with sub-zero temperatures and more snow expected later in the night.
4:00 p.m.
Columbia Solid Waste canceled all recycling collection for Monday due to frigid temperatures in the current forecast.
At this time, collection will remain on schedule beginning Tuesday, according to a news release from the city.
3:45 p.m.
AAA provided steps to prevent frozen pipes and expensive repairs during this weekend’s frigid temperatures.
The association said prolonged periods of below freezing weather can cause issues for heating systems, plumbing and exterior features, according to a news release from AAA.
AAA insurance reports that the average frozen pipe claim costs over $11,000, though the amount can become higher depending on damage to personal property.
2:00 p.m.
Ameren canceled its official request for customers to preserve energy. However, the Columbia Water and Light Department is still asking residents to reduce electricity use during this weekend as it is a high-demand period, according to a post on X. The department said this will help keep the heat going for everyone.
10:00 a.m.
Ameren Missouri is calling for customers to conserve energy during the weekend.
According to a news release, the Midcontinent Independent System Operator and the regional grid operator have informed Midwest energy companies that customers need to conserve energy until further notice.
Ameren will activate available demand response programs for customers who have already entered an agreement to reduce energy consumption during times of high demand.
Ameren also recommends a few methods to reduce energy consumption:
- Lowering the thermostat
- Covering drafty windows and weatherizing when possible
- Unplug or turn off nonessential appliances
- Reduce the temperature setting on electric water heaters
9:00 a.m.
The Boone County Office of Emergency Management moved operations to its Level 3, or enhanced activation status, on Friday. The county opened its Emergency Operations Center at 7 a.m. Saturday as officials tracked the storm.
Columbia Public Works noted that they have a 28-person crew working 12-hour shifts during this winter blast. Crews hit the streets starting at 7 a.m., with their focus on first and second priority routes, which include major arterial streets, emergency routes and roads serving critical facilities.
Officials also stressed that if there is more than 2 inches of snow accumulation, parking on primary routes is prohibited and that vehicles could be ticketed or towed.
Residential routes will also be cleared, city officials noted, but only after the priority routes. Drivers are being asked to try and park on driveways in those areas to help crews clear streets more effectively.
City officials noted that because of the extremely low temperatures, salt would not be particularly effective. They are advising residents to avoid any unnecessary travel but note that anyone who does have to get on the road to give snowplows plenty of space to work.
