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JACKSON, MISS. – A second round of winter weather, with the coldest temperatures this season, is headed to Mississippi next week and will likely impact travel conditions. The National Weather Service is forecasting sub-freezing temperatures and measurable snowfall that could extend from central Mississippi down to the Gulf Coast. The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) is prepared to respond to winter weather and extreme cold events.
MDOT is closely monitoring the weather and has prepared equipment by installing salt spreaders on trucks and making sure all response vehicles are running properly. Crews have stockpiled salt, sand and asphalt slag piles.
On Sunday, MDOT will begin operations to treat roadways ahead of the winter storm expected to move into the area early Tuesday.
Salt brine will be sprayed on interstates, highways, bridges and overpasses. When applied to a dry road surface, salt brine can help prevent ice formation on travel lanes. If the roads are already wet, granular salt can be applied to help prevent the formation of ice by lowering the freezing point of water. Sand and slag can also be spread to help improve traction in slushy conditions.
“We urge the public to monitor forecasts and avoid driving in severe winter weather events unless absolutely necessary,” said Brad White, MDOT Executive Director. “MDOT is prepared to respond during this winter storm to keep roads safe and passable.”
To assist the traveling public in preparing for potential winter weather conditions, MDOT offers these safe driving tips.
- Watch out for black ice, which can be difficult to see, especially at night.
- Allow more space between the vehicles around you.
- Brake early and gently to avoid skidding, and never slam on brakes.
- Avoid distractions, such as talking or texting on a cell phone.
- Stay alert.
- Remember, ice will form on bridges and overpasses quicker than the road.
- Remain cautious in areas with overhanging trees and other shady areas where moisture can accumulate and refreeze.
- Slow down.
Before loading up to travel during the winter months, make sure your vehicle is properly maintained.
- Have your vehicle battery and charging system checked for optimum performance.
- Clean, flush and put new antifreeze in your vehicle’s cooling system.
- Get your brakes checked to make sure they are functioning properly.
- Make sure the heater, defroster and windshield wipers are good to go for the winter.
- Fill your gas tank. When the tank is full, there is less air space for moisture to accumulate and freeze.
Creating a winter weather kit to keep in the car in case of a winter weather emergency can be a lifesaver. While MDOT crews will be working to keep roads passable, sometimes conditions can overwhelm available resources, and cars can be on the highways for long periods. Here are some important things to have just in case:
- Windshield scraper
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Jumper cables
- Bottled water and snacks
- Extra blankets
- Warm clothing, jacket, gloves
“We encourage all motorists to take winter weather safety seriously,” said White. “Always have a plan, stay updated on road conditions and follow guidance from your local weather officials to remain safe.”
For more information on how to prepare for winter weather, visit GoMDOT.com/winter. For real-time road conditions on Mississippi’s highways and bridges, download the MDOT Traffic mobile app, visit MDOTtraffic.com and follow @MississippiDOT on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).
MageeNews.com is the online news source for Simpson and surrounding counties as well as the State of Mississippi
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