photo by: Shawn Valverde

A snowplow works to keep up with the snow before dawn Sunday morning in Lawrence.

The Kansas Department of Transportation has closed all state highways in Douglas and surrounding counties as one of the largest winter storms in recent memory covers the region.

KDOT announced Sunday afternoon that all state highways — including I-70 — are closed until further notice in the following counties: Marshall, Nemaha, Brown, Doniphan, Riley, Pottawatomie, Jackson, Atchison, Wabaunsee, Shawnee, Jefferson, Leavenworth, Wyandotte, Douglas, Johnson, Lyon, Osage, Jewell, Republic, Washington, Mitchell, Cloud, Clay, Lincoln, Ottawa, Ellsworth, Saline, Dickinson, Geary, Morris, McPherson, Marion and Chase counties.

Motorists currently traveling in affected areas are advised to adjust travel plans immediately.

“This is a major, statewide winter weather event,” Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed said. “We appreciate the cooperation of the public in staying off the roads so our crews can focus on reopening routes as quickly and as safely as possible. KDOT is out in force working diligently in these challenging conditions.”

KDOT crews are working to reopen roads, with priority given to major routes. Progress will depend on weather conditions.

If you are currently stranded, call *47 for Kansas Highway Patrol Dispatch and provide your location. KDOT encourages motorists to follow the guidance of emergency personnel and call for assistance to determine the best course of action.

KDOT also advises motorists who must travel to have emergency kits on hand with clothes, blankets, food, water and other supplies.

For updates on highway conditions across Kansas, visit kandrive.gov.