ODOT Crews Work To Clear Roads, Bridges

NewsOn6.com

UNDATED -- Crews with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation continue efforts to clear roadways and bridges.

ODOT officials say unnecessary travel is discouraged as slick conditions and slick spots are reported over the majority of the state, with the exception of the Panhandle, far northwest and southeast parts of the state.

Progress is being made Tuesday morning at clearing highways and bridges, however ODOT officials say efforts in the overnight proved challenging on the slick roadways with two ODOT trucks overturning in south central Oklahoma.

Precipitation changing to sleet has helped provide some traction, however ODOT cautions drivers to not feel a false sense of security with the sleet. With low temperatures, drivers should remain extremely cautious on the roadway and realize that wet, slushy areas can still be slick.

Highway crews will continue shift work around the clock throughout this winter storm.

As a reminder during snow and ice conditions, motorists that must travel are asked to:

• Be aware that conditions are continually changing; drive cautiously and for the conditions on the roadway.
• Allow extra space between vehicles so there is adequate distance for braking in wet and icy conditions.
• Stay at least 200 feet behind road clearing equipment; crews need room to maneuver and can engage plowing or spreading materials without notice.
• Be aware of "black ice" conditions, which looks wet on the roadway but is a thin layer of ice.
• Please be patient, plan trips ahead and allow extra time in reaching destinations.

To check current road conditions call the Department of Public Safety's road conditions hotline at 888-425-2385.

You can track the storms with WARN Interactive Radar and get safety tips in our Storm Zone Section.

You can get the latest WARN Team forecast in the NewsOn6.com Weather section.