March 9, 2022 (Lincoln, Neb.) — The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) crews are prepared for a spring weather event, which looks to impact most of the State in different ways Wednesday through Thursday. Forecasts call for a severe weather with impacts along the Interstate 80 corridor. Workers and equipment will be out to clear the highways and monitor changing conditions throughout the storm, which look to impact travel Wednesday and Thursday.
“Our crews will be out working to clear roadways as conditions allow in a winter weather event. With the forecasted snow fall totals coupled with high winds, we urge against all unnecessary travel in the affected areas. If you must travel during this time, know before you go by checking 511.nebraska.gov for road conditions and closures and always travel well established routes,” said John Selmer, Director of the Nebraska Department of Transportation.
“Our troopers will be prepared to help any motorists who need assistance,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “We urge all drivers to be vigilant and avoid travel if conditions aren’t favorable.
Travelers are advised to be alert, be aware and check the most up-to-date travel conditions available through 511, Nebraska’s Advanced Traveler Information System. The system is available at all times via phone by dialing 511, online at www.511.nebraska.gov, or through the Nebraska 511’s smartphone app. Travelers are also encourage to utilize NDOT’s Plow Tracker at plows.nebraska.gov where the public will be able to observe road conditions in real time from the cabs of NDOT snowplows. Please note that weather conditions are often worse than they appear on camera.
Should travel be absolutely necessary, NDOT reminds motorists to be prepared with warm clothing water and food. Be sure to travel on well-established routes and notify someone when you are leaving for your destination. If traveling a distance, a winter weather survival kit is advised with additional basic items.
Travelers are advised not to drive faster than conditions allow. Surfaces will be slick under the snow and visibility may be poor. Allow plenty of time to arrive at your destination. With snowplows out on the roads, travelers are urged to be cautious and courteous to those operating them, making sure to:
· Slow down as you approach plows. They travel slowly, usually 25 to 30 miles per hour or less.
· Stay well behind plows to give you and them plenty of room. When traveling outside of a business or residential district, it is unlawful to follow a highway maintenance vehicle (snowplow, truck or grader) more closely than 100 feet when it is plowing snow, spreading salt or sand, or displaying a flashing amber or blue light.
· Never pass a plow on the right – snowplows are equipped with “wing plows” which extend beyond the truck itself.
· Know where plows are and actions they may be taking while they plow snow.
Motorists are reminded to make sure everyone in their vehicle wears a seat belt and children are in a car safety seat. Do not use cruise control in wet or snowy weather and keep a full gas tank.
For safe-driving tips and winter weather information, visit NDOT’s website, http://dot.nebraska.gov/safety/driving/winter/. As a reminder, the NSP Highway Helpline is available 24 hours per day for motorists in need of assistance Drivers can reach NSP by dialing *55 from any cell phone. Call 911 for any emergency.
