As snow fell across the Ozarks, falling temps would lead to a messy night.  Along Interstate 44, two major wrecks closed traffic in both directions near mile markers 73 and 74.  One of those crashes involved nine vehicles, including seven passenger cars and two semi-trucks.  Luckily, nobody was killed, but we're told seven were sent to the hospital with moderate to serious injuries.  First responders say, the weather could lead to a long night.

"There's been a couple of other accidents.  There's a pretty heavy traffic volume with everybody coming home from the holiday weekend, but hopefully it will die down pretty quickly," said Cpt. Scott Jones of the Springfield Fire Department.

While the wintry mix caused chaos around Springfield, especially for drivers, those trying to fly home are experiencing problems as well.   Flights are canceled at major airports across the nation.

Travelers like Chris Wallace who was trying to get back home to Chicago for work Monday,  found himself staying in Springfield for the night.

"We flew from Denver this morning, arrived here around 1:00, and found out our flight was canceled.  Now here we are," said Wallace.

Now, without his belongings, Wallace says he's going to have to make the best out of the situation.

"Unfortunately our luggage is already in Chicago.  So, we'll be here without our luggage.  We have these handy little travel packs tonight.  Other than that, we'll wait it out in the beautiful town of Springfield," said Wallace.

Traveler Mari Prigmore was about to head back to college in Lexingtion, Kentucky, but says she's likely going to be late for her last week of class.

"My flight was supposed to be at 2:40.  Then I found out it was delayed until 4:30.  Then I came back and found out it was delayed until 5:00.  They told me to go to the gate and wait for information.  I went up there, and they told me it was canceled about 4:45," said Prigmore.

She decided to go back to her family's home in Joplin for the night.

Police responded to several dozen wrecks Sunday evening, as the snow took its toll across the region.

-Story ideas or comments?  Email me at wcarter@kspr.com