(AP) Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon has activated the State Emergency Operations Center for round-the-clock operation in response to the winter storm bearing down on the state.

The storm on Thursday brought sleet, freezing rain and snow to Missouri, creating hazardous driving conditions in the southern part of the state. Temperatures were 40 degrees colder than Wednesday, when much of Missouri basked in weather in the 60s.

Other state agencies were also geared up for the weather. The Missouri State Highway Patrol extended shifts in affected areas, and workers for the Missouri Department of Transportation were treating roads for snow and ice.

Nixon encouraged Missourians to stay on top of the weather, drive cautiously, and check on the elderly and others who may need help.