The latest local news, weather and high school sports in and around Columbia and Jefferson City

Missouri Department of Transportation crews continue to be out in full force clearing roads and bridges in mid-Missouri. 

MoDOT officials are reporting major routes in central Missouri as clear and minor roads as passable.

In a news release, MoDOT said Crews will continue to work around the clock until all roads are clear.

 “We are working as fast as we can to get roads clear of snow and ice, and we will stay with it until all roads and bridges in central Missouri are safe and passable,” said Central District Engineer David Silvester. “We want to thank motorists for their patience and understanding as we continue our work.”

Silvester said in some areas – mainly Boone and Callaway counties – crews are still working to remove abandoned vehicles from roadways so the roads can be plowed.

While MoDOT officials report they’ve made progress on many roads, road conditions vary across the state, according to the news release.

 Thursday, MoDOT had more than 220 plow trucks out in the central part of the state.

In Cole County, 26 public works trucks were out clearing the roads. Many of the employees worked 14-hour shifts to try and get the majority of the roads clear.

They encourage motorists to continue to use caution and care when driving and to check MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map  or call toll-free 1-888-275-6636 for the latest road conditions.