VANCOUVER – Road crews have been busy the past two days spraying anti-icer on thoroughfares in preparation for a major snow and ice storm forecasted for Thursday.
The National Weather Service forecasts snow will begin falling at 9-10 a.m. Thursday, followed by freezing rain later Thursday and rain by midnight. The storm could bring 2-4 inches of snow and ¼ inch of accumulated ice.
To inhibit ice crystals from bonding to road pavements, county crews are spraying salt brine ‒ a mixture of salt and water‒ on county roads that receive the most traffic.
Clark County will complete its staffing plans based on the latest weather forecast, and road crews will be prepared to plow roads, spray salt brine and spread gravel on curves, hills and other trouble spots where drivers can use more traction.
“We are fully stocked with salt brine and sanding gravel,” said Scott Wilson, Clark County’s Road Maintenance Division manager. “Our trucks are chained up and fitted with plows and sanders. We are ready to help our residents get through this expected storm.”
Residents are urged to travel only if necessary and to slow down and allow extra time to reach their destinations. Conditions may not look bad at sunrise but could deteriorate quickly. Ice can make travel treacherous, even for four-wheel drive vehicles.
Specific problem, such as fallen trees or limbs blocking county roads, can be reported to Public Works at (360) 397-2446. Downed power lines should be reported to Clark Public Utilities at (360) 397-8000.
More information on the county’s winter weather preparation and response is available on the county’s website at www.clark.wa.gov/public-works/winter-snow-and-ice.
