Kansas Highways Reopen After Winter Storm, Some Roads Remain Closed

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – Kansas highways began reopening Monday morning after a severe winter storm, but many roads remain hazardous due to blowing snow and icy conditions. By 9 a.m. Monday, Interstate 70 had reopened between Topeka and west of Hays, while several highways in the northeast corner of the state were also cleared for travel. However, numerous routes, including K4 between Topeka and Dover, remained closed as crews worked to address snowdrifts and icy patches.

The storm, which brought heavy snowfall and strong winds to northeast Kansas, prompted the Emergency Alert System to issue warnings to residents early Monday morning, urging them to stay off the roads. A similar alert had been sent Sunday evening as conditions worsened. KDOT Topeka Superintendent Dave Studebaker emphasized the challenges faced by snowplow operators, noting that stranded vehicles hindered their ability to clear roads effectively.

“Our trucks need space to operate, and in some cases, they’re getting stuck because motorists aren’t giving them room to turn around,” Studebaker said Sunday. He anticipated significant improvements by midday Monday as crews continued to apply ice-melting materials and clear snow.

Even on reopened highways, drivers were advised to exercise caution, as many roads were partially or completely covered in snow and ice. The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) urged motorists to check road conditions before traveling and to avoid unnecessary trips until conditions improve.

As of Monday morning, key closures included Highway 40 from Tecumseh to west of Lawrence and K30 from I-70 to Maple Hill. The storm, which began Saturday, dumped several inches of snow across the region, with wind gusts exacerbating visibility and drifting issues. Authorities reported no major accidents or injuries directly attributed to the storm as of Monday morning.

Residents in affected areas were encouraged to monitor local weather updates and follow advisories from KDOT and emergency management officials. The storm is expected to move out of the region by Tuesday, with milder temperatures forecasted later in the week.