HOUSTON—Snowfall is not a common sight in Houston and the surrounding areas. In fact, the last time we saw flurries from the sky was December 11, 2008. While the attraction may have caused excitement for many Houstonians, it also caused problems on the roadways. In preparation for the expected snowfall on Friday, TxDot is armed with a solution that may help combat the possibility of slippery streets.
On Thursday, maintenance crews in Montgomery County, Waller County and central, west and north areas of Harris County will be spraying a magnesium chloride solution on bridge and overpass “hot spots” to prevent water accumulation from freezing.
Six thousand gallons of the solution is on hand to hit areas that are commonly affected during slippery conditions.
Crews are also in the process of preparing sanding trucks should they be needed on Friday and Saturday.
Listed below are the “hot spot” locations:
· SH 6/US 290 overpass in Waller County
· North end of I-45 in Harris County, continuing into Montgomery County
· SH 105 West, FM 1093, Woodlands Parkway connector at I-45, Highway 59 North in Montgomery County
· Far west end of Highway 290 in Harris County
· 610 East overpass at I-10 East in Harris County
Motorists should use caution if driving in these areas on Thursday while TxDOT crews and equipment spread the magnesium chloride. In the event of icy roads Friday night, motorists are urged to use caution on bridges and overpasses.
TxDOT will continue to monitor the potential for severe winter weather.
