NDOT advises against driving in current winter storm

With an atmospheric river winter storm hitting northern Nevada, the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) is urging motorists to avoid driving during inclement weather. There have already been road closures and flooding roadways.

The snow and slush that have fallen on roadways throughout the day are leading to reduced traction. As temperatures continue to drop, ice has the potential to form under a light layer of snow on the roadway. Adding to the dangerous driving conditions is the potential increase of impaired drivers following New Year’s Eve celebrations.

NDOT is dedicated to keeping highways safe for drivers by first prioritizing snow removal on major thoroughfares such as interstates. Local city and county governments are responsible for snow removal on city streets and county roads. Like many public and private employers, NDOT is experiencing staffing shortages for highway maintenance workers. While NDOT is working to provide the same level of snow removal as in previous years, motorists should also anticipate slower travel times and the potential of reduced highway snow removal. The department is also hiring for temporary winter highway maintenance workers to help keep winter highways clear.

Statewide, more than 175 crashes occurred in inclement weather between Oct. 1, 2021 and April 30, 2022, including two fatalities. Many of the crashes were due to unsafe driving in snow, ice, and other wet conditions, such as driving too fast for conditions, following too closely, or failing to maintain a lane and overcorrecting. When necessary to travel in winter weather, motorists are reminded to drive slowly for conditions and leave space between their vehicle and others. Wearing a seat belt and focusing on the road are other important driving tips for any type of weather.

Winter Preparation

As storms move in, NDOT maintenance personnel patrol highways and closely monitor professional meteorological forecasts detailing wind, rain, snow, ice and other weather on state roads. Staff also utilize more than 50 Road Weather Information System meteorological stations located along northwestern Nevada highways to provide detailed reports of current air and pavement temperature, as well as moisture. The updated weather readings help pinpoint precise sections of roads needing brine, salt and sand or snow removal.

During major winter storms, crews work in 12-hour shifts, rotating personnel to provide 24-hours-a-day snow removal.

Updated state road conditions, including winter road closures and incidents, are available by dialing “511,” logging on to nvroads.com or using the Nevada 511 app before driving. Drivers can also view live traffic cameras and sign up for free traffic alerts for their state road commute.