(WBRE/WYOU) — As temperatures drop and roads become slick in northeastern and central Pennsylvania, we wanted to know if salting roads was an effective way to keep drivers from slipping and sliding while traveling.
PennDOT is reminding drivers to slow down and exercise caution as temperatures are expected to drop and remain in the low teens through Wednesday.
While crews continue to treat roadways, PennDOT explains the low temperatures may impact the effectiveness of the materials used.
While not a silver bullet, PennDOT says salt is a great material to mitigate winter weather, but is less effective below 25° and not effective below 15°.
Vehicle and speed restrictions put in place across NEPA
Drivers may encounter slick spots on the roads, especially in areas with snow drifts or shade.
PennDOT says drivers need to be especially careful when approaching bridges and highway ramps where, without warning, ice can form.
Drivers are advised by PennDOT to watch out for "black ice," or when a thin layer of ice forms on clear roadways.
When the road looks wet but no spray is coming from the tires of other vehicles, PennDOT says black ice may be in the area and they advise drivers to exercise extreme caution.
To stay up to date on the latest weather alerts, use the Eyewitness Interactive Radar.
You can also stay up to date on speed limit restrictions, road conditions, and closures on 511PA.com.
