ALDOT: Travel dangerous in Thursday, Friday cold weather
Precipitation and plunging temperatures Thursday night could challenge travel and create dangerous driving conditions in the northern two-thirds of Alabama, the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) said in a statement Wednesday.
The arctic cold front expected to move across the state Thursday and Friday could keep ALDOT from being able to pre-treat roads from icy conditions and respond to ice on roadways.
“In areas impacted by precipitation and freezing temperatures, travel should be avoided if possible until conditions improve,” ALDOT public information officer Josh Phillips said. “Motorists are encouraged to use extreme caution, check road conditions before departing and allow for increased travel times.
“The public is encouraged to check with their local county or municipality for conditions on county and local roadways.”
ALDOT will first focus on treating interstates and heavily traveled roadways. It will target areas at more risk of freezing, like hills, curves, ramps, bridges and interchanges.
Crews will also be working to remove debris blocking roadways. Motorists should slow down and move over if possible for ALDOT crews.
When driving in wet and icy conditions, drivers should drive slower than the posted speed limit and make sure not to tailgate other drivers. Do not use cruise control on wet or icy roads.
Plan your route and check forecasts before leaving. Make sure your vehicle has adequate tire tread and proper fluid levels.
Keep an emergency kit of jumper cables, blankets, warm clothes, food, water, a flashlight and chargers for devices.
Motorists can check ALGOtraffic.com or download the ALGO Traffic app to check on road conditions.
