MDOT preparing for potential winter weather conditions

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MDOT preparing for potential winter weather conditions

JACKSON, MISS.–Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) crews are preparing for potential winter weather conditions as a cold front moves through Mississippi tonight and tomorrow.

“With a winter event, MDOT bases its response from information issued by the National Weather Service (NWS),” said Commissioner Mike Tagert, Northern Transportation District. “Crews in areas that could potentially be affected by winter weather will be monitoring local forecasts and riding the highways throughout the evening and into the early morning.”

Current weather reports from NWS show potential for a wintry mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain Monday night as far south as the Interstate 20 corridor. Strong winds are expected to push the storm through by Tuesday morning.

MDOT crews are pre-treating roads and bridges with sodium brine, which lowers the freezing point of water and helps lessen ice formation.

“The solution has to be applied to a dry surface. Applying it during or after rainfall renders it ineffective,” said Melinda McGrath, P.E., MDOT executive director. “The salt brine helps lessen ice formation, but cannot completely prevent it. Motorists should always slow down and drive carefully in winter weather conditions.”

MDOT is preparing equipment by installing salt spreaders on trucks and making sure all response vehicles are fueled and running properly. Crews are stocking salt, sand and asphalt slag piles. Overnight, crews will be riding the highways to treat problem areas as they are found.

“Initially, we treat the roadway with salt as temperatures drop and icy conditions occur,” McGrath said. “Depending on the temperature drop and precipitation mix, we also combine the salt with slag for increased traction.”

To assist the traveling public in preparing for potential winter weather conditions, MDOT offers these safe driving tips.

· Remember, ice will form on bridges and overpasses quicker than the road.

· Slow down; should winter weather conditions become present, “black ice” can form.

· Allow more space between the vehicle in front of you.

· Brake early and gently to avoid skidding, and never slam on the brakes.

· Avoid distractions, such as talking or texting on a cell phone.

· Stay alert.

“MDOT will be monitoring the weather so the appropriate response efforts can be activated,” said Commissioner Dick Hall, Central District. “The best thing the traveling public can do to stay safe is pay attention to local weather forecasts and advisories, and alerts from the Mississippi Highway Patrol and local law enforcement. Everyone should stay off the roads if they become unsafe for travel due to winter weather conditions.”

For more information and tips on how to prepare for winter weather conditions, visit GoMDOT.com/winter.