Texas: the road measures that Dallas and Houston will apply in the winter season – USA – International

2023-12-09 15:30:00

With the winter season just around the corner, Texas is already taking steps to address adverse snow and ice conditions for next winter. The cities of Dallas and Houston are taking a proactive approach to avoid issues similar to those experienced during the February 2022 winter storm.

In the past, these Texas cities took a reactive approach to treating streets with salt and sand after they froze. However, the ineffectiveness of this approach during the 2022 ice storm, which resulted in the suspension of bus service for 48 hours, has prompted reconsideration.

Now, Dallas and Houston will implement a new method, treating streets with a brine solution before snow or frost is predicted. The brine solution will initially be applied to critical areas, such as bridges, overpasses, slopes and intersections, prioritizing safety in locations prone to hazardous conditions.

Among other measures, the authorities will supply fuel to emergency vehicles

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Preventive measures to guarantee the safety of drivers

The city of Dallas had never purchased brine in advance until this year. This change demonstrates its determination to adopt preventive and proactive measures to guarantee the safety of citizens during the winter season. For its part, Houston has purchased 10,000 tons of brine, which represents a 50 percent increase over last year.

The use of brine is integrated as a key measure in the general plan of cities to improve safety and mobility during snow and ice events. These actions are expected to help avoid significant disruptions to public transportation and reduce problems on the roads during adverse weather conditions.

By taking a proactive approach to street treatment, authorities seek to improve the safety of drivers and pedestrians, but also prevent disruptions to public transportation, for a more effective and safer response to winter weather events.

Other measures include fueling emergency vehicles such as fire trucks and snow clearing equipment. They are also developing emergency plans to respond to snow and ice events, including protocols for cleaning streets, opening homeless shelters and caring for people in need of medical assistance.