CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Transportation crews across the Carolinas are prepared to work around the clock to get roads clear as forecasts call for a second winter storm in less than a week.
Although experts don’t predict as much snow and ice this time around, maintenance crews have been preparing for the worst by cleaning, prepping equipment, and ordering supplies to replenish what was used just a few days ago.
Transportation officials urge the public to avoid traveling in the icy conditions if at all possible.
“SCDOT has transitioned from clearing roads from the winter storm this past weekend to preparing for a new winter storm in the forecast,” Secretary of Transportation Christy Hall said Thursday, Jan 20, 2022. “SCDOT again is prepared for the worst possible conditions. We advise the motoring public to plan ahead and not to drive in areas impacted by snow and ice.”
“Drivers should remain alert for black ice Friday morning, especially on bridges, overpasses, shaded areas, and turn lanes.” – NCDOT officials.
North Carolina:
NCDOT officials say a rainy start to the winter system means crews will not be pretreating roads with brine.
Since Mecklenburg County contains several interstates, officials say crews and contract trucks will be available late Thursday night to treat overpasses, bridges, and main lines before temperatures dip below freezing Friday morning.
More contract salt trucks will report at 12 p.m. Friday to continue the job if needed.
Union and Cabarrus County crews will mobilize Friday morning to be available for emergency calls and treat any developing trouble spots.
Officials say further east, Anson and Stanly County workers are prepared to mobilize between midnight and 4 a.m. Friday to address problem spots.
In addition, the State Farm Interstate Maintenance Assistance Patrol will work in rotating 12-hour shifts from 5:30 a.m. Friday to 5:30 a.m. Saturday to help disabled motorists get back on the road safely.
South Carolina:
SCDOT will once agin have contracts with private companies to position wreckers along interstates to help avoid potential lengthy backups, in addition to having close to 2,5000 workers working around the clock.
Forty-four trucks will be on duty to help stranded motorists. Call *47 for SCDOT SHEP assistance.
Transportation employees will work 12-hour shifts of pre-emptive ice treatments, snow plowing, and spreading salt and other materials to achieve safer, improved road conditions.
SCDOT crews will work until all roads are clear.
