What to expect as TDOT works to remove snow, ice from roadways

JACKSON, Tenn. — Below freezing temperatures turned heavy snow into a thick shield of ice on some main roadways in West Tennessee by midday Wednesday. We have more on where crews are focusing and what to expect over the next couple of days.

In addition to issues from last week’s floods, crews are now dealing with the snow and ice. Some areas saw upwards of 4 inches of snow overnight and into the early morning hours on Wednesday.

“Right now our crews are out salting and plowing the roadways in the West Tennessee area. We do cover 21 counties. Those northern areas did get hit just a little bit harder,” said Nichole Lawerence, region 4 communications officer for Tennessee Department of Transportation.

TDOT is focusing on interstates and highly traveled routes including: US 70, US 412, and Highway 45 Bypass.

“A lot of those are our primary routes that we concentrate on; the interstate specifically,” said Lawerence.

Asphalt or wheel paths were visible on lanes on interstate 40 at Campbell Street and Christmasville Road. TDOT warns of black ice, especially with temperatures expected to drop.

“With those temperatures not rising, it’s still going to be some frozen precipitation on the ground. We just still stress for folks to be careful and plan ahead. If you don’t have to be out, go ahead and stay in,” said Lawerence.

AAA also reminds motorists to put more space between you and the vehicle in front of you and avoid braking on ice, to prevent fender benders and slide-offs.

According to Jackson police, if you do get into an accident without injuries take pictures of any damage and exchange information with the other driver.

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