Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) crews are preparing for potential winter weather conditions as a cold front moves through Mississippi tonight and tomorrow.
Current weather reports from the National Weather Service show potential for a wintry mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain Monday night. 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.
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.
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.”
On the road? Why not take us with you. All our websites are mobile-friendly. Visit our growing family of exit guides: I-4 Exit Guide, I-5 Exit Guide, I-10 Exit Guide, I-75 Exit Guide, and I-95 Exit Guide. Detailed exit service listings… discount lodging, camping, food, gas and more for every exit along the way!
