District 1 and District 2 snow and ice crews with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet are out around the area pre-treating highways with brine as current weather reports are forecasting the possibility of snow.
District 2 spokeswoman Keirsten Jaggers says the brine dries to a fine powder coating of salt that sticks to the road surface and is activated by falling snow in the early hours of a snow and ice event. She points out that pre-treating initially improves driving conditions and makes it easier for crews to plow snow by keeping frozen precipitation from bonding to the driving surface.
Jaggers says motorists should be alert for slow-moving trucks on the road spraying brine on A, B, and C routes. She says crews will focus first on high-priority routes such as interstates and critical roadways and then heavily-traveled state routes before turning to lower-volume routes.
According to Jaggers, the weather models are shaping up to reflect hazardous driving conditions could be a possibility beginning Thursday. Motorists are reminded to adjust their driving behavior to meet localized weather conditions as the snow and ice develop.
Motorists are encouraged to remain safe by following these tips:
- When snow and/or ice are on roadways, drive slowly no matter what type of vehicle you are in. It takes more time and distance to stop your vehicle in adverse weather conditions, so break early and slowly.
- Pay attention to weather advisories. Weather will impact your commute on some level.
- Slow down when approaching intersections, off-ramps, bridges, and shaded areas. These are all potential areas for developing black ice, which is a thin coating of clear ice that can form on the pavement surface that may be difficult to see.
- Maintain a safe distance from snowplows and other heavy highway equipment.
- Do not pass snowplows on the shoulder.
- Allow more time to travel for routine commutes.
Jaggers says the snow and ice teams will continue to monitor this weather system and will update their response plan as needed. She urges motorists to plan ahead and prep vehicles for travel and slower travel speeds during a winter weather event.
