Ice possible, followed by more snow as another wave approaches

As snow continues to fall steadily, meteorologists at the National Weather say Cape Girardeau can expect four to eight inches of snowfall today, and a minor accumulation of ice, before tapering off early Friday.

The heavy snow warning will remain in effect for the region until noon on Friday.

Though there is a chance of freezing rain and sleet in the forecast, the precipitation should gradually change to all snow.

A heavy snow warning means at least four inches are expected within a 12-hour period, or six inches within 24 hours, according to the national weather service.

Hills that have north or northeast facing hillsides, or bridge overpasses, will be especially slick and may be prone to accidents during these conditions, said Sgt. Barry Hovis of the Cape Girardeau police.

Police received a flurry of calls about vehicles that had slid off the roadway or were stuck in the snow, and at least six accidents were reported in the city limits, said Hovis.

Snow plows and motor graters are currently working to remove snow from county roads, starting around noon when it began to accumulate, said Scott Bechtold, county highway administrator.

About six trucks dispensed cinders to try and control any slick spots that may be developing, he said.

They will probably continue the work till around dark, and begin again tomorrow morning, he said.

"Everybody needs to use caution, a lot of it," Bechtold said.