NOVEMBER 1, 2024|
Photo – WYDOT Road Info link (does not work here) – Bigfoot99 file photo
WYDOT is providing tips to ensure motorists stay safe on the roads following the first snowfall of the season.
“First snow of the year and the roads are closed. It’s going to be a long winter.” Medicine Bow Councilwoman Kristi Wickizer shared this post on social media yesterday morning, echoing how many Carbon County residents feel. Late night crashes on Highway 30 and Interstate 80 closed both roads until Wednesday afternoon.
Wyoming Department of Transportation Senior Public Relations Specialist Andrea Staley said the recent warm weather might have left some travelers unprepared for Tuesday’s snowfall. Staley reminded motorists to obey the variable speed limit signs, even if conditions in the area do not appear hazardous.
Staley said speed limits are changed based on real time reports from plow crews.
Staley said roads are only closed when conditions become too dangerous. When they do close, Staley said crews work around the clock to reopen the roads to traffic as soon as possible.
Tuesday night’s snow caused rolling closures along Interstate 80. Staley recommended signing up for the WYDOT Travel Authorization Program, which allows residents to bypass the closures.
Staley explained that when snow is in the forecast, WYDOT crews begin spreading a salt and sand mixture, called geo brine, on the roads. The geo brine is designed to prevent snow from freezing to the road surface.
Staley said plow crews are prepared for winter. WYDOT asks motorists to avoid colliding with WYDOT plow trucks. Every truck taken off the road slows the state agency’s ability to keep the highways open.
Last winter, eight WYDOT plows were involved in traffic collisions in our area, with two of those occurring here in Carbon County.
Staley recommended driving at an appropriate speed when conditions are less than ideal. Additionally, motorists should keep an eye out for plow trucks. If you are driving toward what appears to be a localized blizzard, it is very likely a snowplow, said Staley.
Winter road closures are a fact of life in rural Wyoming. Staley recommended ensuring your tires are properly inflated and your vehicle has plenty of fuel before leaving your home. WYDOT also offers a list of recommended items to keep inside of your vehicle in case you become stuck.
As snowy weather settles into our region, it’s only a matter of time before the Snowy Range and Battle Pass Scenic Byways are closed for winter. Staley said WYDOT plow crews will attempt to keep both roads open for the remainder of the hunting season.
Staley suggested motorists check road conditions on the WYDOT 511 app or website before any trip.
