SPOKANE, Wash. — The Washington Department of Transportation is preparing for an upcoming snowstorm in the Inland Northwest with extra crews and equipment.
Snow days mean busy days for WSDOT, with approximately 200 plow drivers preparing for a busy day of road clearing.
“We like to look at it as our Super Bowl. This is kind of our big event this year,” said Ryan Overton, WSDOT Eastern Region Communications Manager.
Last year, WSDOT was short on snowplow drivers, but this year they are ready.
“As of this year, we are fully staffed and went into winter shift on Nov. 15,” Overton said.
Plow operators are now preparing to work around the clock after heavy snowfall.
“If conditions worsen, people will be called out on the weekend, so we will have additional crews who can come on call. We will have additional coverage, additional plow drivers and roadway equipment,” Overton said.
“WSDOT says drivers are also being asked to watch for plow drivers on the road.
“We’re just asking that you give our plow drivers the space to do the work they need to do to keep the roads clear,” Overton said.
Drivers are expected to drive slowly during plowing.
“35 mph or less, if you’re going faster, you’re going to push the snow 20 to 30 yards off the roadway, which in itself creates dangerous conditions,” Overton said.
Plow drivers will also put salt and sand on the ground, and driving too fast will cause it to be scattered on the side of the road.
So remember to give plenty of space to plow drivers and slow down in the snow.
READ: WSDOT crews clear Snoqualmie Pass as storm approaches
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