photo by: Shawn Valverde

A snow plow works to keep up with the snow before dawn Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, in Lawrence.

Updated at 4:02 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025.

A winter storm hit Lawrence Saturday afternoon and is expected to continue until Monday.

The storm brought significant ice, sleet and snow, making roadways and sidewalks treacherous, and bringing dangerously cold temperatures that are expected to last through the coming week.

People are urged to stay indoors. The National Weather Service has said travel could be extremely dangerous to impossible, with slick roads, gusting winds and blowing snow. The Kansas Department of Transportation issued a statement late Saturday saying U.S. Highway 40 from K-4 in Topeka to K-10 in Lawrence is closed as well as K-10 in Lawrence from U.S. 59 to the Douglas/Johnson county line. It gave no estimate on re-opening. On Sunday, Interstate 70 closed from Ellsworth/Hays to the Missouri state line, according to a press release.

A Winter Emergency Day Shelter at University Community of Christ Church, 1900 University Drive, will be open to anyone in need of a warm place to stay. If anyone needs shelter but is struggling with transportation, call 785-760-1481.

Many services and businesses are expected to be closed both Sunday and Monday. Click here for a list of area closures.

photo by: Walt Clogston

A sign in downtown Lawrence Sunday morning, Jan. 5, 2025, as a winter storm hit the area.

photo by: Walt Clogston

The Douglas County Courthouse in downtown Lawrence is pictured Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, during a winter storm.

photo by: Walt Clogston

Downtown Lawrence is pictured during a winter storm Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025.

photo by: Walt Clogston

Downtown Lawrence is pictured during a winter storm Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025.