Date:
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Contact:
Sylvia Ross, WSDOT Communications, 360-852-2537 (Vancouver)
Alissa Bateman, WSDOT Communications, 360-600-2081 (Vancouver)
VANCOUVER – Strong winds forecasted for Southwest Washington on Thursday evening have Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) maintenance crews keeping a careful watch on state highways in anticipation of weather-related road complications. At this time maintenance crews are on winter schedule, monitoring the roadways for fallen debris.
Motorists should anticipate delays or closures overnight and into the morning. WSDOT crews will move as quickly as possible to clear the roadways, but winds can have unpredictable adverse effects on the roadways, with possibility of debris and fallen trees in many areas. Equipment is ready, so when it is safe to clear the roadway, crews are prepared.
How can motorists find the latest information on the highways they plan to travel?
- Check the web before you head out to get an accurate picture of conditions. www.wsdot.wa.gov/traffic/
- Drivers can go to our Highway Weather Update web page for the most updated information on all roads across Washington State: www.wsdot.wa.gov/traffic/weather/updates
- Drivers can call 5-1-1 from any phone to get timely updates on the road. If you’re on the road, have a passenger call 5-1-1 to get timely updates on the road. You can also view our traffic page, including mountain pass reports, on your cell phone or PDA’s.
What can drivers do?
- Assess the weather situation before setting out.
- Drive for the conditions. Driver should slow down and keep extra space between you and the vehicle in front of you.
- If traveling over a mountain pass, carry chains.
- If you find yourself stranded, be safe and stay in your car, put on your flashers, call for help and wait until it arrives.
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Drivers can now get real time traffic and weather information by dialing 5-1-1 from most phones. This new traveler information system builds upon the highly successful Washington State Highway hotline that managed 4.6 million calls each year. Callers can also use 5-1-1 to get statewide construction, mountain pass condition, and state ferry system information, as well as toll free numbers for passenger rail and airlines. TTY users can call 1-800-833-6388.
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