A Texas Department of Transportation truck spreads brine on an overpass ahead of possible wintry weather. (Tyler Morning Telegraph File)

From Staff Reports

State road crews are preparing this week for upcoming frigid weather and wintry precipitation.

Texas Department of Transportation Tyler District crews will proactively mobilize this Friday to begin early brine application on state roads in the eight counties the Tyler District serves. Crews will apply brine to major state roadway travel lanes, including Interstate 20, U.S. Highway 271, and State Highway 110.

Brine is a salt and water mixture designed to help slow initial icing on pavements. The process is a fast-moving mobile operation with minimal impacts to traffic. Drivers should allow a safe traveling distance between their vehicles and the mobile convoys distributing the pre-treatment materials.

Crews have readied equipment and materials to treat other roadways as warranted. Coordination efforts with local municipalities and law enforcement are also underway, according to TxDOT Tyler officials.

TxDOT also works closely with the National Weather Service to have the best available information preparing for a winter weather storm.

TxDOT personnel say they are monitoring forecasts and weather conditions and will respond as needed to ensure roadways remain open and safe for travel when possible. Road closures and other conditions are posted and updated as necessary at DriveTexas.org. Residents can get statewide road conditions by calling 800-452-9292.

Here are some safe driving tips should wintry conditions set in:

Avoid unnecessary travel if conditions warrant.

Be extra cautious on bridges, overpasses, ramps, turns and shaded areas that usually freeze first.

Reduce speed and allow extra time to reach destinations.

Increase the following distance between you and other vehicles.

If you start to slide, ease off the gas pedal or brakes and steer into the direction of skid.

Stay back at least 200 feet from vehicles treating roadways and move over for emergency vehicles.

Be patient. Your trip time could increase when adverse weather conditions exist.

Remain in your vehicle. If stranded, please call 911 to alert emergency services.

The TxDOT Tyler District includes Anderson, Cherokee, Gregg, Henderson, Rusk, Smith, Van Zandt, and Wood counties.