At 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Hays City Manager Toby Dougherty declared the city of Hays to be under a “Phase One” winter storm traffic emergency, meaning it is unlawful to park a vehicle on any street designated as an emergency snow route.

The Hays Public Works Department and Hays Police Department are requesting the public’s assistance with snow removal along emergency snow routes. Residents are asked to take the appropriate measures and move vehicles from the snow route. Vehicles left on snow routes could be cited or towed at the owner’s expense.

The traffic emergency will remain in effect until further notice.

Since winter precipitation continues to fall and conditions are expected to worsen through the day, the Hays Police Department is asking that motorists avoid travel if at all possible. Those who must travel are advised to do so with caution and are encouraged to give themselves extra time to reach their destination. Please remember to drive slow, pay attention to vehicles in front of you, and allow for extra stopping distance.

The public’s cooperation is greatly appreciated. If there are questions, contact that Hays Police Department at (785) 625-1011 or the Hays Public Works Department at (785) 628-7350.

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At this morning’s press briefing at City Hall, Public Works Director ID Creech and Hays Police Chief Don Scheibler said the city is making calls to get the vehicles removed from the snow routes.

Scheibler said there had been several minor vehicle accidents as of late Monday morning.

Check Hays Post for continued updates on the weather situation.