As temperatures drop once again, icy road conditions are present in areas of north and central Mississippi.
According to the Mississippi Department of Transportation, ice has been reported in the following counties:
Alcorn, Attala Benton, Bolivar, Calhoun, Carrol, Coahoma, DeSoto, Grenada, Holmes, Lafayette, Lee, Leflore, Marshall, Montgomery, Panola, Pontotoc, Quitman, Sunflower, Tallahatchie, Tate, Tippah, Tishomingo, Tunica, Union, Washington, Yalobusha.
MDOT urges Mississippians in these areas to stay off of the roads if at all possible, but if you must drive, read over these tips:
- buckle up for safety;
- slow down, especially when driving in winter weather conditions;
- allow more space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you;
- brake early to allow plenty of time to stop;
- brake gently to avoid skidding and never slam on the brakes;
- turn on lights to be more visible to other motorists;
- do not use cruise control or overdrive on icy roads;
- stay alert and look farther ahead in traffic than you normally do; and
- drive safely.
The presence of “black ice” is also a primary concern.
“You never know when a road or bridge might look okay to travel, but black ice could be present, which could cause you to lose traction if you’re going too fast. This is especially dangerous on the elevated bridges,” Jason Scott with MDOT, said.
As of 12:15 p.m., no road closures have been reported, but crews are out responding to situations as needed.
