Media Contact:  Karyn Le Blanc, 202-671-3490 desk, 202-497-4572 cell

(Washington, DC) – The National Weather Service is forecasting continued snow and sleet mixed with freezing rain on through this evening.  The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) and the Department of Public Works (DPW) treated District roads with salt and brine solutions throughout the day in anticipation of possible freezing conditions through the evening rush hour and into the night.

The District Snow Team will continue to treat roads throughout the storm and into the morning hours continually monitoring road conditions.

Temperatures for the evening are predicted to be close to freezing and road conditions for the afternoon rush hour may be slushy and slippery.

In addition to the previously issued, important safety and driving tips listed below, DDOT reminds motorists:

• Roadways can be slippery and pedestrians can take longer to cross intersections.  Please remain alert, do not drive distracted and be aware of surrounding conditions including other motorists and pedestrians.

DPW also issued a press release today reminding District residents and businesses to “clear their sidewalks, sidewalk entrances, nearby catch basin openings, and the area surrounding hydrants of snow, sleet and ice to prevent injury to pedestrians.”   These important measures assist in keeping the sidewalks safe and passable for all pedestrians including District residents and visitors.

Again, the District Snow Team reminds commuters and residents to please adhere to these important safety and driving tips:

• Please take Metro as an alternative to driving
• Listen to media reports for weather updates
• 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

For additional information on road treatment and the District Snow Plan please visit the DDOT web site at www.ddot.dc.gov.