TxDOT Crews Preparing for Winter Weather

AUSTIN — Preparations for winter weather in Texas commence long before the colder temperatures set in, with Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) staff initiating measures while the weather remains warm and balmy.

The preparations encompass a series of proactive steps including equipment maintenance, training sessions, and restocking salt supplies strategically positioned across the state.

Matthew Heinze, TxDOT maintenance section manager, highlighted, "Texas maintains nine strategic salt pile locations in high-use areas, available for use by other districts during extended snow or ice events."

TxDOT’s readiness extends beyond salt reserves to include stockpiling sand, chemical de-icers, and liquid brine well ahead of winter's onset.

Equally crucial is the training and readiness of personnel statewide. Crews undergo winter weather operations training and update plans for handling adverse weather, ensuring preparedness well in advance of any frost touching Texas highways.

Constant monitoring of weather forecasts is integral to TxDOT's strategy. "We are always monitoring the weather," Heinze emphasized, noting daily updates from the National Weather Service.

Anticipating winter weather prompts swift action. Many districts proactively treat highways with brine, a mixture of salt and water, applied days before an expected event to prevent ice from adhering to road surfaces.

Upon the arrival of winter weather, TxDOT crews engage in round-the-clock monitoring of roadways. Bridges, overpasses, and elevated structures, prone to icing, receive heightened attention, with crews employing salt, sand, and chemical de-icers to maintain road clarity.

Plows are utilized to clear snow and ice from roadways, and winter weather operations continue until conditions improve.

TxDOT, while tirelessly working during inclement weather, urges drivers to prioritize safety. Discouraging travel during adverse conditions, they offer safety tips for motorists:

• Give TxDOT vehicles space to work and avoid closely following or attempting to pass road maintenance equipment.
• Stay abreast of rapidly changing weather conditions.
• Allow extra time for travel and share the road considerately.
• Adjust driving to conditions, wear seat belts, and refrain from using cruise control.
• Reduce speed and maintain increased distance between vehicles.
• Drive with headlights on for visibility day and night.
• Carry an emergency kit in vehicles.
• Maintain a full gas tank for unexpected delays.
• Allow ample space for parked vehicles on the roadside.
• In case of a skid, stay calm, steer in the intended direction, and avoid sudden maneuvers.

Furthermore, motorists are encouraged to move over or slow down upon encountering vehicles with flashing lights, including tow trucks, law enforcement, emergency, or TxDOT vehicles.

To stay informed about rapidly changing conditions, individuals are advised to follow local weather forecasts and check highway road conditions via www.drivetexas.org or by contacting TxDOT’s Travel Information Line at 1-800-452-9292.