Texas Has Begun Treating Roads Ahead of This Weekend’s Winter Storm
As a significant winter storm approaches Texas this weekend, state and local transportation agencies have already begun preparing roadways to help keep drivers safe. With freezing rain, sleet, and snow forecast across large portions of the state, officials are taking proactive steps to reduce hazardous conditions on major highways, bridges, and overpasses. (NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth)
🚛 Brine Trucks Hit the Roads
Crews from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and regional authorities like the North Texas Tollway Authority (NTTA) have deployed trucks to treat road surfaces ahead of the storm. The primary strategy involves applying a brine solution — a mixture of salt and water — designed to help prevent ice and freezing precipitation from bonding to pavement. (NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth)
Brine treatments are especially effective when applied before winter precipitation begins, as they lower the freezing point of moisture on the road and reduce the likelihood of slick spots forming. This early action aims to make road surfaces safer and more manageable for motorists once temperatures drop and precipitation moves in. (WFAA)
🛣️ Where Prep Work Is Underway
North Texas
TxDOT and NTTA crews are already treating highways in the Dallas–Fort Worth area with brine ahead of expected wintry weather. Their efforts focus on major thoroughfares that see heavy traffic, including elevated structures that freeze most quickly. (NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth)
Central & South Texas
In the San Antonio region and Central Texas, TxDOT began treating roadways earlier this week, prioritizing bridges, flyovers, and other vulnerable spots. Crews are working to complete regional coverage before the worst of the storm arrives. (expressnews.com)
East Texas
TxDOT crews in the Tyler District and surrounding counties have also begun brining operations ahead of forecasted icy conditions, ensuring that key routes remain as safe as possible. (CBS 19)
❄️ Why Early Treatment Matters
Treating roads with brine before precipitation begins is an important safety step because:
- It helps prevent ice from bonding to the pavement — making early morning commutes less treacherous.
- Brine works on bridges and overpasses first, which freeze sooner than standard road surfaces.
- Applying treatments ahead of time reduces the need for emergency responses once conditions worsen.
By getting a head start on these treatments, TxDOT hopes to minimize slick spots and give drivers better traction if travel becomes necessary. (Texas Department of Transportation)
🚗 Travel Advice for Residents
Even with road treatments underway, officials strongly urge Texans to exercise caution:
- Avoid non-essential travel if possible once winter precipitation begins.
- Slow down and increase following distance in icy or slick conditions.
- Expect delays on major interstates and bridges — especially where temperatures dip below freezing overnight.
- Monitor local forecasts and road condition updates via DriveTexas.org.
Winter weather events in Texas can be unpredictable, and even treated roads can become hazardous once temperatures fall and precipitation accumulates.
🌨️ Broader Winter Storm Preparations
State leaders have activated emergency response resources in anticipation of the storm’s arrival. Governor Greg Abbott directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to mobilize agencies statewide, including TxDOT and first responders, in preparation for the severe cold front. (Division des Urgences du Texas)
Officials are also monitoring electricity and natural gas infrastructure to ensure grid stability and are urging residents to stay informed and prepared for possible impacts on travel and utilities.
⭐ Final Take
Texas is taking winter storm preparedness seriously this week, with transportation crews already treating roads ahead of what could be a significant weather event. While early brine application and roadway monitoring can help mitigate hazards, drivers are reminded that treated roads are not ice-proof and conditions can deteriorate quickly once freezing rain or snow begins.
Stay safe, plan ahead, and check road conditions before heading out this weekend.
