Missouri Department of Transportation conducts statewide winter drill

The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) is conducting its annual statewide winter operations drill from October 13 to 15. The exercise is designed to prepare personnel, equipment, and emergency response systems for potentially severe winter weather.

During the three-day drill, motorists may see an increased number of MoDOT trucks on state highways as operators practice assigned routes and review maintenance procedures. The training is considered particularly critical due to recent employee turnover; MoDOT Chief Safety and Operations Officer Becky Allmeroth noted that 17% of snowplow operators have less than one year of experience, and over 40% have less than three years. This lack of experience is partly attributed to a lack of significant winter storms over the last four years.

The drill includes responding to a simulated forecast of substantial statewide snowfall, activating emergency operations centers, and testing communication systems. Approximately 3,000 employees are involved in MoDOT's winter maintenance efforts. The department also uses this time to inspect and calibrate equipment such as trucks, motor graders, and snow blowers to ensure efficiency and safety.