Road Conditions Deteriorating

March 21, 2008
Contact: Elise Schaffer, PIO Phone: (608) 284-6142 Email: schaffer@co.dane.wi.us
Sheriff's Office

The Dane County Sheriff’s Office, Dane County Emergency Management and the American Red Cross are urging persons to stay off the roads if at all possible. According to the National Weather Service, the blowing and drifting snow will continue to intensify throughout the day, causing visibility to be reduced to ¼ of a mile at times. 8-10 inches of snow are predicted with snowfall rates reaching up to 2 inches per hour. The heavy snowfall will be accompanied by wind gusts between 15 and 30 mph and the possibility of thunderstorms, making driving conditions dangerous. The Winter Storm Warning is in effect until 7:00 pm for Dane County. Dane County Sheriff’s Deputies have responded to numerous slide-offs, crashes, and disabled vehicles this morning. With weather conditions changing rapidly, the Sheriff’s Office recommends people refrain from travel. If you must travel, please take the following precautions: · Slow Down – Roads are icy and snow covered. · Check local weather reports before leaving for the area you will be traveling in. · Make sure your vehicle has plenty of gas. · Maintain a winter survival kit in your vehicle with items such as a flashlight, cell phone and charger, shovel, snow boots and extra clothing, and an ice scraper. · Communicate with someone regarding your travel plans and route. · Give yourself plenty of extra time. · If the storm becomes too much for you, please take refuge immediately. · And as always, wear your seatbelt and drive sober. ###