ARDOT prepares for snow, ice, and bitter cold

A deicer truck departs from an Arkansas Department of Transportation district site in preparation for the winter storm.

A powerful winter system moving into Arkansas this weekend is expected to bring significant snow, sleet, freezing rain, and dangerously cold temperatures to north central and northeast parts of the state, weather officials said Thursday, prompting safety warnings from emergency agencies and transportation officials.

The National Weather Service in Little Rock has issued a Winter Storm Watch from Friday afternoon through late Saturday night for much of northern Arkansas, including the Ozarks and the Delta. Forecasters say several inches of snow are possible in north central and northeast counties, along with periods of sleet and freezing rain that could lead to hazardous travel, power outages, and downed trees. Arctic air moving in behind the system could drive wind chill values well below zero late Saturday into Sunday.

The Arkansas Department of Transportation says crews are preparing for what could become a significant statewide winter weather event. ARDOT began the year with more than 78,000 cubic yards of salt stored at 121 salt houses across the state and has 700 snowplows and 600 salt spreaders ready for deployment. Maintenance crews will begin pretreating highways and bridges ahead of the storm and will move to 24-hour operations starting Friday, working 12-hour shifts as conditions deteriorate. A statewide Strike Team of roughly 75 employees is also activated to assist district crews with clearing major routes, including interstates and primary highways in northern Arkansas.

“Our crews are prepared and ready to face the incoming winter storm,” ARDOT State Maintenance Engineer Deric Wyatt said. Officials urged drivers to stay off the roads during the height of the storm if possible and to check current conditions before traveling. Road conditions and winter weather updates are available at IDriveArkansas.com, where motorists can view real-time maps by selecting the winter weather layer.

The Arkansas State Police echoed those warnings, advising motorists to avoid unnecessary travel during periods of snow, ice and freezing rain. Troopers say icy bridges, overpasses and exit ramps are likely to freeze first, increasing the risk of crashes. Drivers who must travel are urged to slow down, increase following distance and avoid sudden braking or sharp steering. ASP also recommends carrying an emergency kit that includes blankets, water, nonperishable food, extra clothing, a flashlight, a phone charger and basic first-aid supplies. Troopers will be on patrol statewide throughout the storm to assist stranded motorists.

Officials stress that forecasts may change as the storm approaches and urge residents to closely monitor weather updates, road conditions and local emergency information over the coming days.

Images via the Arkansas Department of Transportation / National Weather Service