WILMINGTON — N.C. Department of Transportation employees have been working
to clear roads of snow and ice in Southeastern North Carolina since early
yesterday – and additional help is on the way. More than 40 pieces of equipment
and operators either arrived yesterday or currently are in route to the area.
The department is responsible for close to 12,000 lane miles in the
six counties that comprise Division 3 (New Hanover, Brunswick, Pender, Onslow,
Duplin and Sampson) and prioritizes clearing interstates first, followed by U.S.
and N.C routes before clearing secondary roads.
Unlike previous storms that have hit Southeastern North Carolina,
this winter event was mostly ice, which makes it even more difficult to clear,
especially with temperatures remaining significantly below freezing.
“Salt is only effective in helping melt the ice when the
temperature is above 18 degrees, which makes clearing the roads more
challenging,” said Division Engineer Karen Collette. “Areas that receive
sunlight during the day, will be in better shape, but shady areas, bridges and
curves will be worse. Any areas that are wet or slushy during the day, will
refreeze over the next several nights.”
The department asks that drivers refrain from travel after sundown
until the temperatures reach a safe level. For motorists who must drive during
nighttime hours, please use reduce speed and use caution.
Please follow the link to learn how we respond to snow vs.
ice.