NCDOT starts brining ahead of possible snowfall this weekend in Central NC
RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- NCDOT crews are beginning to pre-treat roads as central and eastern North Carolina braces for possible snowfall this weekend.
"They're pre-treating all interstates and primary roads (Thursday), aiming to finish by (Friday) afternoon so we're ahead of the snow," said Kim Deaner, a Public Information Officer with NCDOT.
Although last weekend's ice storm did not cause widespread power outages in the Triangle, road conditions have continued to impact schools with remote learning and delayed starts.
Deaner said that ice is more challenging to clear than snow because it compacts and requires plows to work harder, followed by salt application to aid melting. However, the forecast of light, fluffy snow is expected to make clearing roads easier and faster.
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"I know we are expecting to get anywhere from three to six, possibly more inches. I know that forecasts can change and most likely will. Obviously, the more snow we get, the longer it's going to take us, we'll have to make multiple passes. But dealing with this light, fluffy snow is easier," Deaner said.
Local municipalities and NCDOT are already preparing ahead of the storm. Deaner emphasized the department is well-prepared to respond, with ample salt storage and a combination of staff and contract crews.
Crews will prioritize interstates first, as they carry more traffic and are critical for emergency services like police and ambulances.
"You want to make sure that your emergency services are able to get where they need to be, (that) police are able to respond, ambulances are able to respond. Interstates are a must be cleared first," Deaner said.
