Press release
TYLER – After a day of treating icy, slushy roads TxDOT crews are preparing for the solid ice expected to set in once night falls over Northeast Texas. Motorists are advised to stay off the roads overnight as temperatures remain below freezing.
The National Weather Service predicts light freezing rain/drizzle overnight with accumulations mostly confined to East/Southeast Texas adding to what is currently on the roads. TxDOT crews will be back on the roads tonight monitoring and treating high profile and problem areas, including bridges and overpasses.
The Tyler District has experienced from a quarter inch to an inch of sleet across the northern sections of the district. The roads are still wet and some are splashed with slush, including I-20 where traffic has pushed some of it off the travel lanes. However, motorists should expect the slush along with the precipitation that continues to fall in some areas to freeze tonight resulting in more ice. Drivers are also reminded to be aware of the potential for black ice, which appears as dry pavement.
Roadways are expected to be impacted through Tuesday morning at various locations around the eight-county Tyler District.
“We encourage motorists to stay off the impacted roads,” said Kathi White, TxDOT spokesperson. “If you don’t have to be out tonight, don’t chance it. Safety of the traveling public is our top priority and the safest place throughout the night and in the morning is home.”
Here are a few safety tips to assist you if you must drive:
- Be extra cautious on bridges, overpasses, ramps, turns and shaded areas which tend to freeze first.
- Reduce speed and allow extra time to reach destinations.
- Increase the following distance between you and other vehicles.
- Stay back at least 200 feet from vehicles treating roadways
- If you start to slide, ease off the gas pedal or brakes and steer into the direction of skid.
- Should an incident occur, remain in your vehicle
- Avoid unnecessary travel
Visit www.drivetexas.org or call 1-800-452-9292 for statewide road conditions.