Crews from the Tennessee Department of Transportation are gearing up for what could be a busy weekend due to the threat of winter weather in Middle Tennessee.
Crews started laying down brine on roads Friday afternoon. It leaves a residue on the road which helps lower the freezing point of water. Officials said extra attention was paid to vulnerable areas.
For the Middle Tennessee region, TDOT has 65,000 tons of salt ready to go and all bins are at capacity. There are also 400,000 gallons of brine ready to be used.
Supervisors monitored the road conditions Friday night, and planned to call in crews if necessary. The same procedure is in place for the rest of the weekend.
Officials are asking drivers to be careful on the roads.
“Our biggest concern is bridges and overpasses,” said Kathryn Schulte, TDOT Community Relations Officer. “Temperatures are hovering around freezing, but typically road temperatures are a few degrees warmer. Bridges and overpasses are more vulnerable because they have cold all around.”
AAA officials are also warning drivers to protect their cars this winter. Some recommendations include making sure your tires are inflated, and windshield wipers are in good shape. Also, double check your car battery because cold weather can wear it down quickly. It is also advised to make sure you keep your gas tank at least half full.
