The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) is getting ready for a winter storm that is expected to bring below-freezing temperatures and wintry mix conditions to most of the state early next week.
Brine operations
Brine operations started across the state Sunday morning. Interstates, state routes, bridges, and overpasses are the top priority for crews to treat first. The department is focusing on high traffic areas and routes with access to hospitals and urgent care centers. Crews will continue pre-treating roads Monday, weather permitting.
Georgia DOT is tracking the storm’s progress with the National Weather Service. Factors the department is considering in its response to the storm include the sheer size and scope, how long below-freezing temperatures are expected to last, and the type and amount of precipitation.
“Georgia DOT urges the public to recognize the sheer size of this particular storm,” said GDOT Commissioner Russell R. McMurry. “It has the potential to move quickly through our state, but leave significant impacts on a statewide level.” McMurry stressed the importance of giving Georgia DOT crews the space and time to work safely during the multi-day event.
Georgia DOT routinely treats roads with brine, a mixture of salt and water, to keep ice from bonding to the pavement. The department has 31 brine tankers, each with a 5,000-gallon capacity, as well as smaller units and contractor forces to deploy statewide. Note that brine is most effective when applied before precipitation and when temperatures are above 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
Limit travel
If you can, limit travel starting Tuesday afternoon. With predictions of 1 to 2 inches of snow in north Georgia and varying amounts in central Georgia, including the metro Atlanta area, road conditions could deteriorate quickly. Pre-treatment or not, the elements and road surface temperatures could still cause freezing. Avoid driving unless you must, or wait until daylight for better visibility.
Georgia DOT advises drivers to use extreme caution, reduce speed, and stay back from Georgia DOT trucks traveling 40 mph to apply brine effectively. Drivers should also stay at least 100 feet behind brine trucks and avoid passing them while they are spreading salt or gravel.
For real-time traffic updates and information, visit 511GA by dialing 511 hands-free on your mobile phone, downloading the 511GA app, or visiting 511GA.org. For facts and materials about Georgia DOT’s winter weather preparedness, visit https://www.dot.ga.gov/GDOT/pages/WinterWeather.aspx.
