Official City Roundup: State of Emergency and Winter Weather Advisories

City-Wide State of Emergency Remains in Effect

Mayor Cara Spencer has maintained the local State of Emergency for the City of St. Louis, which is currently scheduled to remain active through February 22, 2026. This declaration was issued in response to the severe winter storm system that has brought significant snow accumulations and dangerously low temperatures to the region. The emergency status grants city departments expanded authority for emergency contracting, procurement, and the coordination of resources via the Winter Weather Unified Command. Residents are advised that travel remains difficult on secondary and residential streets as crews continue to prioritize clearing primary arterials and emergency routes.

Department of Health: Code Blue Level 4 Advisory

The City of St. Louis Department of Health has extended the Code Blue Shelter Protocols to Level 4, active through Sunday, February 1, 2026. Under Level 4 protocols, the city and its partners have made over 600 emergency shelter beds available 24 hours a day to protect vulnerable populations from life-threatening conditions. Health Commissioner Victoria Anwuri urges residents to limit time outdoors, as wind chills reaching -20°F pose an immediate risk for frostbite and hypothermia. The department also reminds citizens to check on elderly neighbors and ensure that pets are brought indoors. If you see someone in need of shelter, please contact the Citizens' Service Bureau or emergency services.

Roadway and Infrastructure Updates

The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) and the St. Louis Street Department report several ongoing closures and maintenance projects affected by the current weather. Motorists should be aware of the following:

• Interstate 55: Long-term construction continues with one southbound lane closed from I-44 to north of Bates Street, and two southbound lanes closed from north of Bates to north of Weber Road. These restrictions are expected to remain in place through early 2026.
• Snow Removal Operations: MoDOT crews are currently focused on clearing and pushing snow back from highway ramps and shoulders. Drivers are requested to provide extra room for plow operators and avoid passing them while they are in tandem formation.
• Trash Collection: While primary routes are being cleared, residents should monitor official channels for specific neighborhood delays in refuse and recycling pickup due to icy alley conditions.

Municipal Court Transition to CaseNet

Effective today, January 31, 2026, the St. Louis City Municipal Court is completing its full transition to the Missouri CaseNet system. Residents with pending court matters or those seeking to find updated court dates following recent weather-related cancellations should now use the statewide CaseNet portal. No new summons or warrants will be issued for failure to appear during the recent emergency closure period, but all defendants are responsible for verifying their rescheduled dates through the new online system starting this morning.