Driving Tips for Snow and Ice as TxDOT and Fort Bend Transit Respond to Houston’s Winter Storm
As a historic winter storm brings snow, ice, and freezing temperatures to southeast Texas, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and Fort Bend Transit are urging residents to stay safe on the roads. With hazardous conditions forecasted to persist for multiple days, TxDOT has shared critical winter driving tips, and Fort Bend Transit has announced the cancellation of all services for Tuesday, January 21.
TxDOT Shares Winter Driving Tips for Safety
To help drivers navigate icy roads and snowy conditions, TxDOT has outlined several precautions:
- Winterize Your Vehicle: Before hitting the road, check that your antifreeze, windshield washer fluid, oil, battery, wipers, and brakes are in good condition. Keep your gas tank full and ensure your vehicle's defroster and tires are winter-ready.
- Use Caution on Bridges and Overpasses: Elevated roadways freeze faster than ground-level roads. Approach bridges, ramps, and shaded areas slowly, as they are prone to developing black ice—a transparent, slick layer of ice that is difficult to spot.
- Carry an Emergency Kit: All vehicles should have a cold-weather survival pack, including blankets, non-perishable snacks, water, a flashlight, a phone charger, and jumper cables.
If your vehicle becomes stranded, TxDOT advises drivers to stay inside their vehicle, call for assistance, and wait for help to arrive.
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How to Handle a Skid on Snow or Ice
Driving on snow or ice requires extra caution and preparation. TxDOT recommends these steps to regain control if your vehicle begins to skid:
- Remove your foot from the accelerator to stop the wheels from spinning.
- Avoid slamming the brakes; gently pump them instead.
- Steer into the direction of the skid to regain traction.
- Do not oversteer, as it can lead to further loss of control.
Drivers should also maintain three times the normal following distance and stay at least 200 feet behind snow plows to ensure safety.
Fort Bend Transit Cancels Services Amid Storm
In response to the winter weather, Fort Bend Transit has announced the suspension of all services on Tuesday, January 21. The decision was made to protect passengers and drivers from the hazardous road conditions.
"Your safety, and the safety of others on the road, remain our top priority," Fort Bend Transit stated. "We encourage residents to monitor local news, as well as our website and social media channels, for further updates."
Residents should consider postponing non-essential travel until the storm subsides.
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Historic Winter Storm Brings Dangerous Conditions
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), southeast Texas will experience snow accumulations of 4 to 6 inches in some areas, with ice accumulations of up to a tenth of an inch in southern and coastal regions. A hard freezeis expected Tuesday night, with below-freezing temperatures continuing through Thursday morning.
"Ice and Snow, Take It Slow"
TxDOT reminds drivers of their key winter safety mantra: "Ice and snow, take it slow." Speed limits are designed for normal conditions, not icy roads. Slowing down and remaining alert can prevent accidents during severe weather.
For real-time updates on road conditions, visit Houston TranStar or Drive Texas. Stay safe, stay informed, and stay warm.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
