Since 7 a.m.. Friday, hundreds of crews from the Delaware Department of Transportation have been preparing the roads and the equipment for the snow that is likely to fall later Friday afternoon. Depending on the severity of the storm, crews are prepared to work this evening and through the night, until the roads are safe.
Light snow began to fall Friday afternoon. So far, roads and streets that had been pre-treated by DelDOT crews and private contractors remained clear. Accumulations are expected to be light.
Since yesterday, crews have been applying salt and brine, which a mixture of salt and water, to the major and secondary roads so that when snow does fall, it will either prevent any accumulation, or delay and minimize accumulation of snow and ice.
This event is a real challenge, because snow will likely start to fall around Friday evening rush hour. However, DelDOT crews have been working since yesterday and all day to make sure everyone’s drive home is as safe as possible.
Despite the efforts of the DelDOT men and women, there will likely still be some slick spots. People should be careful on bridges, overpasses, but also turn lanes, and heavily wooded areas. Be careful driving on an off ramp, or merging lane.
The DelDOT Transportation Management Center, based in Smyrna, is manned 24 hours a day with staff who monitor weather stations, road temperatures, and traffic cameras. These personnel can quickly mobilize plow operators and other personnel if conditions change
