nddotlogoBismarck  (CSi)  The North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT) encourages motorists to stay informed of road conditions as travel may be difficult this holiday weekend due to forecasted weather conditions.  NDDOT provides many tools for motorists to know before you go including the NDRoads smartphone app, online Travel Information Map, text and email subscription service and 511.

National Weather Service forecasts blizzard conditions for much of the state. Roads may become blocked and impassable as a result of the forecasted conditions. Motorists should be prepared to alter travel plans as weather conditions change. Know the road conditions before you go by checking the Travel Information Map online at http://www.dot.nd.gov/travel-info-v2/ or download the NDRoads smartphone app. Road condition information is also available through text or email alerts by signing up on our website at: http://www.dot.nd.gov/govdelivery/landing.htm.

The NDDOT releases information to the public about road conditions on state highways and interstates. There are three categories you should familiarize yourself with:

  • Travel Alert– Motorists can still travel but may encounter areas of challenging winter weather driving conditions on roadways.
  • No Travel Advised– Motorists should not travel due to hazardous conditions which may make it unsafe to travel.
  • Roads Closed or Blocked– Motorist are not allowed to travel on closed roads due to life threatening conditions.

 

NDDOT snow plows will be out in full force this weekend to combat snow and ice on state roadways. Over 300 plows will be out across the state and no matter when you travel, motorists must share the road with them. Motorists should stay back from snow plows, slow down and never drive through “white-outs” or “snowfog” caused by cross winds while plowing snow.

Motorists should always check the road conditions before they travel and abide by the travel warnings issued by NDDOT, Highway Patrol and local law enforcement. Those warnings are in place for the safety of the traveling public and allows snow plow operators, emergency responders and law enforcement to do their job.

If you do get stranded:

  • Stay in your vehicle.
  • Run the engine and heater about 10 minutes an hour to stay warm.
  • When the engine is running, open a window slightly to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.  Periodically clearing snow from the exhaust pipe will also help prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
  • When it’s dark outside, turn on the interior light so rescuers can see you.
  • Put up a distress flag, or spread a large colored cloth on the ground to attract attention from rescuers.

 

If you are traveling this weekend, motorists should follow these winter driving tips:

  • Be ready to change travel plans as weather conditions warrant.
  • Carry a winter survival kit.
  • Never use cruise control on wet or icy roadways.
  • Dress according to weather conditions. Keep dry and wear clothing in layers.
  • Make sure to have a full tank of gas.
  • Use highly traveled roads and highways.
  • Keep family or friends informed of your travel schedule and route.
  • Travel with a charged cell phone.

 

Road conditions are anticipated to change frequently this weekend. Check on road conditions at the NDDOT Travel Information Map on the NDRoads app, visit www.dot.nd.gov or call 511.