As Texas braces for another potential cold snap, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is proactively combating icy roads by treating surfaces in anticipation of the dropping temperatures. TxDOT crews in Bexar and Kerr counties started early, at 9 a.m. yesterday, yet did not disclose specific locations where treatments are being applied, according to KSAT.
In preparation for the inclement weather, thoroughfares in Dallas and Fort Worth received treatments with brine last Friday, this effort aims to stop ice from forming a bond on the roads as the temperatures fall and the cold front sweeps in, bringing with it a chance for snow or a wintry mix later in the week; "When the precipitation falls, it'll dilute with that brine, and it lowers the freezing point. What we're trying to prevent, we're trying to prevent that ice from bonding on the roadway," Val Lopez, Public Information Officer for TxDOT's Fort Worth District, told FOX 4 News.
While today is expected to present clear and cold conditions, with clouds rolling in tonight leading into tomorrow, precipitation set for tomorrow seems to be light and spotty, however, a close watch is necessary for potential light mix in the Hill Country as per information from KSAT.
TxDOT has readied crew on 12-hour shifts to respond as needed, especially paying attention to elevated surfaces, like bridges and overpasses when the snow or wintry mix makes its appearance, "When the incoming weather does roll in, our focus is really going to shift to the elevated surfaces, the bridges and the overpasses," as Lopez explained, indicating the readiness of workers to fight ice, clear snow, and apply additional brine or sand, as per FOX 4 News.
The potential for sleet and freezing rain is not to be underestimated in the Hill Country come tomorrow night and Thursday, with some snow possibly mixing in, says KSAT, emphasizing that driving conditions on bridges and overpasses in these areas should be closely monitored during this period.
Meanwhile, North Texans seem to be taking the cold weather in stride, with Cody White among locals stocking up on firewood, and Andrew Rampley ensuring his mother has enough to stay warm; "You never know with Texas what might happen," White mentioned in an interview with FOX 4 News. With residents sharing varied feelings about the winter weather, Dean Minchillo added, "Give me a couple of days and I’ll probably change my tune, but for right now this actually feels pretty good, like winter is actually here," signaling the community's resolve to face whatever the season brings.
