Roads+Bridges Being Prepped for Slick Roads in North Texas
Some parts of Northeast Texas are bracing for a possible wintery mix of weather, Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) crews in Morris, Titus, and Upshur Counties sprayed down bridges and overpasses with a brine solution yesterday.
Crews in all 9 counties that comprise the Atlanta District are preparing the roads with crews standing by for tonight just in case. The weather here in Texarkana has just been mainly light rain as the temperatures remain just above freezing for the most part. However, in parts of the Northern and Eastern parts of Texas, the weather is right around freezing causing some icy conditions on bridges and overpasses.
Motorists are asked to stay a safe distance away from mobile convoys spreading brine on the roadways. Brine is a solution consisting of salt and water designed to prevent ice and snow from sticking to surfaces.
In the event of hazardous conditions on the road due to weather, motorists are urged to stay home if possible. If travel is necessary, drivers are advised to buckle up, stay alert and slow down. You should allow for at least three times more space than usual between you and the vehicle in front of you.
Here are some more tips for drivers who may be on the road in inclement weather:
- Do not use cruise control, as it may cause you to lose control on icy surfaces.
- Approach turns, bridges, and shaded spots slowly. If you find yourself in a skid, stay calm and keep both hands on the wheel. Take your foot off the gas, look where you want to go, and then steer in that direction.
- Carry extra warm coats, gloves, and boots in case you get stranded.
- Before hitting the road, check DriveTexas.org or call 1-800-452-9292 for around-the-clock updates on highway conditions.
TxDOT’s Atlanta District consists of Bowie, Cass, Camp, Harrison, Marion, Morris, Panola, Titus, and Upshur Counties.