Travelers urged to avoid icy roads

For Immediate Release: Saturday, January 07, 2017

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for freezing rain, sleet and snow through Sunday evening. Washington County is urging all travelers to stay home and off county-maintained roads during the storm this weekend.

Tips for an icy storm:

• Plan to stay in place during the storm. If at all possible, do not travel on icy roads.
• Be prepared for power outages caused by fallen trees and the possibility of downed power lines on roads.
• Have food, flashlights, batteries and warm clothing ready.
• Look out for each other. Slow down, allow plenty of stopping distance and be alert for bicyclists and pedestrians.
• Help road crews get through. Heavy traffic volumes and cars parked on or near roadways impede crews' ability to sand and plow priority routes.

Additional resources for winter travel:

• Washington County's Winter Weather Safety Topics
• ODOT's Winter Driving Guide (also available in Spanish ) and Winter Travel Packet
• NHTSA's Checklist and Tips for Safe Winter Driving
• ODOT's TripCheck (real-time status of state highway conditions)

Visit NWS for the latest forecasts and alerts.

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