Nixon declares state of emergency for storm

JEFFERSON CITY (AP) - Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon has declared a state of emergency and activated the National Guard in anticipation of a major winter storm.

Nixon says 600 Guard members are being deployed around the state to help as needed with local emergency responses.

The governor said Monday he's concerned the winter storm could affect the state for several days - first with freezing rain and ice, then with large quantities of snow, strong winds and low temperatures.

Col. Ron Replogle, superintendent of the Missouri Highway Patrol, said the descriptions that are being applied to this winter storm by weather forecasters are the worst in his 27-year career and people should not plan on traveling in it.

Nixon warned: "Folks should batten down the hatches and hold on."