JACKSON – On Thursday, the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) began operations to treat roadways in Mississippi ahead of Winter Storm Fern, which will move into the state starting Friday.
The National Weather Service is forecasting significant to extreme icing to occur across the northern portion of the state, impacting travel. In addition, dangerously cold temperatures will remain for several days limiting the ability for the ice to melt.
To limit icing on roadways and bridges, salt brine has been sprayed on interstates and highways in 27 counties across north Mississippi, including parts of the Mississippi Delta. 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.
MDOT has stockpiled materials to treat the roads at their maintenance shop locations around the state. Crews have loaded dump trucks with sand and slag to respond to icy areas during the storm. There are 135 snowplows and 64 motor graders staged and ready for use to clear ice and snow off roadways during and after the winter weather event. Trucks have been loaded up with chainsaws to respond to clear trees that fall in the roadway under the weight of the ice.
MDOT maintenance crews who are already out treating the roads are trained and prepared to work around the clock, throughout the duration of the storm. MDOT road maintenance first responders play a critical role in ensuring the safety of Mississippi roadways during winter weather events. Their shifts often include long hours, away from their families.
“I am very thankful for our MDOT team,” said MDOT Executive Director Brad White. “When weather is at it’s worst, they are at their best. Please give our crews space as they work to keep our roadways open. And please be aware, despite our best efforts, the extreme nature of the storm could still result in road closures and the need for the public to avoid travel entirely.”
While MDOT is prepared to monitor road conditions and keep highways passable, motorists also need to be prepared for winter weather. Before loading up to travel during the winter months, make sure your vehicle is properly maintained.
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. Winter weather conditions can create black ice.
• Allow more space between your car and the vehicles around you.
• Brake early and gently to avoid skidding. Never slam on the brakes.
• Avoid distractions, such as talking or texting on a cell phone.
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.
