Safe Traveling During Winter Weather

By: Corbin Lingenfelter, News Director

Local Sources- Traveling during winter weather can be dangerous. 

This week, the national weather service predicts rain, freezing temperatures, and potentially snow ahead of Christmas Eve. With the drop in temperatures, potential for icy road ways increases. 

“Check out the road conditions before you head out,” advised Indiana Department of Transportation’s (INDOT) Gary Brian. 

With a predicted high of 10° Fahrenheit (°F) paired with rain and snow Thursday night and Friday during the day, slippery roads are possible. When treating roadways, salt is one of the first things people think of when it comes to ice melting. However, Brian shared, salt is only useful between 30°F and 20°F. Instead INDOT uses a brine that is capable of melting snow in temperatures all the way down to -5°F. 

As a precaution, drivers are recommended to keep an emergency kit inside their vehicle, should they get stuck on the roads. INDOT recommends having:

• Blankets
• Extra Warm Clothes, Boots, and Gloves
• Phone Charger and Cell Phone
• Food and Water
• First Aid Kit
• Kitty Litter or Sand for traction

If you are stuck on the roadways during the winter, contact the Indiana State Police for assistance.