Houston’s road conditions can be quite a rollercoaster ride, especially during the winter months
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! Recently, the city has been grappling with some treacherous conditions due to a combination of snowfall and freezing temperatures
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. Here’s a closer look at what’s been happening:
The Current Situation
Houston has experienced a significant winter storm, with 2 to 4 inches of snow falling across the region
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. While the snowfall itself was a sight to behold, it’s the aftermath that’s causing headaches for commuters
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. As temperatures dropped below freezing, the melted snow refroze, creating dangerous patches of black ice on roadways
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. Black ice is particularly tricky because it’s nearly invisible, blending in with the road surface and catching drivers off guard
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.
Impact on Traffic
The icy conditions have led to numerous accidents and road closures
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. Major highways like Interstate 10, Interstate 45, and Interstate 610 have been affected, with over 50 road closures reported due to ice
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. Houston TranStar, the city’s traffic monitoring system, has been working overtime to keep residents updated on the latest conditions
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. They’ve advised everyone to stay off the roads and only travel if absolutely necessary
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.
Safety Tips for Drivers
If you absolutely must drive, here are some tips to stay safe:
Drive Slowly: Reduce your speed significantly to maintain control of your vehicle.
Increase Following Distance: Keep a larger gap between you and the car in front of you to allow for longer stopping distances.
Use Headlights: Even during the day, turn on your headlights to increase visibility.
Avoid Sudden Movements: Brake gently and steer smoothly to avoid skidding.
Stay Informed: Check traffic updates regularly and be prepared to change your route if needed.
Community Response
Local authorities and community organizations have
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