Media Contacts: Karyn LeBlanc @ DDOT, (202) 671-3490 desk, (202) 497-4572 cell

(Washington, DC)–National Weather Service is forecasting precipitation in the form of snow and freezing rain beginning around noon on Thursday, January 17. The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) and the Department of Public Works (DPW) spent the day yesterday pre-treating bridges, overpasses and ramps in anticipation of the expected wintry mix.

The District Snow Team will continue treatment of all District roads throughout the storm with a full deployment of equipment and trucks. Due to predicted fluctuating temperatures above and below freezing, road conditions for the afternoon rush hour may be slushy and slippery.

DDOT reminds commuters and residents of the following important safety and driving tips:

• Please take Metro as an alternative to driving
• If you must drive, please drive carefully as road conditions could be icy
• Remember that driving on ice is significantly different than driving on snow
• Remember even a 4-wheel drive SUV does not perform well in ice and additional safety measures should be followed
• Be aware of road conditions, particularly black ice which can be deceptive in its appearance giving the driver a false sense of security on the road.
• Drivers should use extreme caution and maintain safe speeds and distances from other vehicles. 
• Remember to keep a safe distance from emergency and snow vehicles during any major winter weather event.  Stay behind plow vehicles at least 25 feet and do not attempt to pass the vehicles