Michigan Braces for Winter Weather During Holiday Travel

Thanksgiving is a big deal for travel in the U. S. This year, over 80 million people are expected to hit the roads, with most of them driving. In Michigan alone, 2. 3 million people are planning to travel, and many will drive more than 50 miles to reach their destinations. Winter weather is on its way to Southeast Michigan, bringing lake-effect snow and strong winds. Road crews are keeping a close eye on the forecast. They are ready to salt and plow roads if needed. Craig Bryson, a senior communications manager, mentioned that they have a detailed plan for every day and time. The holiday might mean less rush hour traffic, but the weather could still cause delays. Road departments are preparing their plow trucks. They are loaded with salt and brine. Bryson explained that they will pretreat roads with liquid brine when the weather is dry and they have advance warning of snow. This helps prevent icy conditions. Safety is a top priority. Drivers are reminded to stay at least 200 feet away from plow trucks. This rule was put into law in Michigan last year. Wayne County's Road Maintenance Division is also getting ready. They have over 100 plow trucks ready to go. Scott Cabauatan, deputy director, emphasized the importance of safety for both their drivers and the public. Crews will start treating roads before the snow hits. They will focus on the busiest roads, like expressways. Cabauatan mentioned that they have over 100 snow routes, with a driver and a truck for each one. Experts advise slowing down and giving yourself extra time to travel in snowy or icy conditions. They also remind everyone that more snow could be on the way this weekend.