Even as temperatures dipped below freezing, the roads in the Ozarks remained slick and icy, causing difficulties for first responders. The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) listed most of the area as covered by winter weather conditions.

The fire chief of the Western Taney County Fire Protection District, Chris Berndt, described the morning as very challenging. Fortunately, many residents in Branson and Taney County chose to stay home, reducing the need for emergency assistance. However, when Southern Stone County called for help, the conditions proved too treacherous for the fire department to respond.

For the Taney County Ambulance District, it was a similar story. According to Jonathan Tudor, there were at least three instances where their trucks slid off the road simultaneously. Luckily, there were no injuries, but the response time was delayed due to the adverse conditions. One ambulance, on its way to a call, also slid off the road, but a second truck was able to reach the scene and attend to the patient.

The situation was not unique to Taney County, as West Plains and Southern Missouri experienced similar challenges. Sgt. Eddie Young of Troop G, Missouri State Highway Patrol, reported that the state routes and lettered highways were completely covered in ice. Areas with steep inclines were particularly problematic.

All the first responders unanimously advised residents to stay at home if possible. The freezing temperatures needed time to rise and the road treatments to take effect. Sgt. Young reassured the community that things would improve by the next day.

Chad Callison, a resident of Taney County, made sure to prepare himself for any potential emergencies by equipping his vehicle with chains and security kits.

In a heartwarming act of kindness, a Good Samaritan named Kevin Orduno came to the aid of the Taney County ambulance. He picked up one of the paramedics and drove them to a life-threatening call, ensuring that the patient received immediate medical attention while another ambulance was dispatched. Mr. Orduno then returned to help extricate the ambulance from the ditch using his truck and winch. Jonathan Tudor expressed his gratitude, emphasizing that this Good Samaritan made a significant difference in saving the patient's life.

Despite the challenges posed by the winter weather conditions, the dedicated first responders in the Ozarks continue to work diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.