Winter Storm: Be Prepared

A winter storm is expected to start this evening and last well into tomorrow morning with heavy accumulation amounts, particularly in the Southeast portion of Massachusetts.  MassDOT encourages residents and drivers to avoid driving during the evening and early morning hours if possible so that MassDOT and local plowing crews have space to safely clear the road.  Use the MBTA or regional transit options if possible.

We have already begun preparations and at the height of the storm, MassDOT crews will have mobilized thousands of pieces of snow clearing equipment throughout the state.

If driving, remember that the road in front of the plow is usually in much worse condition than the roadway behind the plow. Plows will typically travel under 35 miles per hour and there is always a temptation to pass them. For safety purposes, it is recommended to stay a safe distance behind snowplows.

MassDOT’s winter driving tips are available here. 

Prior to departure, residents and visitors are encourage to check out our online traffic cameras for live conditions on major roadways: www.mass.gov/511/cameras

MassDOT is responsible for 13,500 lane miles of highway and 2,900 bridges. This year MassDOT expects to use more than 570,000 tons of salt, which is stored at 214 facilities throughout Massachusetts, on state highways.

Motorists who drive 4x4 vehicles are urged to remember that those vehicles tend to be heavier than passenger vehicles and actually may take longer to stop. Don't get overconfident in a 4x4 vehicle's traction.

Under the historic reforms signed into law earlier this year by Governor Patrick, the vast majority state's highways, roads and bridges are all controlled by one, unified MassDOT Highway Division for the first time ever, allowing for more efficiency and coordination.

MassDOT will post messages regarding storm events on variable message boards along the highway and on MassDOT's twitter page at: www.twitter.com/massdot