January 5, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Travel Caution Urged as Winter Storm Moves In
DECATUR - The City of Decatur reminds motorists to use extreme caution while traveling as frigid temperatures and expected snowfall can create dangerous driving conditions that can include ice patches that may be difficult to see at night.
The National Weather service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for Wednesday evening through Thursday night and also anticipates single digit wind chill values or colder for much of the area. The storm system is expected to produce 5 to 6 inches of snow with strong winds blowing snow and creating what the weather service is labeling “significant travel hazards.”
When there is ice and/or snowfall, the City divides streets into categories with the goal being to plow or salt (when effective) those roadways that the majority of Decatur residents travel first and then to move to other streets as quickly as possible. Over the last few days the City’s public works department has received several calls from residents requesting salt for their residential streets. Unfortunately, salt is not as effective when the temperature falls below 20 degrees Fahrenheit and sand is used on a very limited basis as it tends to fill drainage inlets which can lead to flooding.
City crews are able to maximize the effectiveness of snow and ice control operations through implementation of the City’s Snow and Ice Control plan in conjunction with the traveling public’s cooperation, patience and assistance. For more information contact Billy Tyus at 424-2753.