Dangerous Road Conditions Possible

The rapid drop in temperatures forecast for tonight, Feb. 11, throughout the Maritimes could lead to treacherous driving conditions in some areas.

Motorists should be alert for slippery conditions due to frost or black ice. Rain changing to snow, combined with temperatures dropping to -19 C overnight make it extremely difficult to predict how pavement will respond to road salt. Salt works effectively when temperatures are between zero and -10 C.

With 25 to 35 millimetres of rain forecast for today, motorists should also pay special attention to low-lying roads that can hold water, which could easily cause a vehicle to hydroplane.

The Department of Transportation and Public Works operates and maintains more than 23,000 kilometres of roads and 3,900 bridges. This year's snow and ice removal budget is $36 million. As of Jan. 26, spending on winter maintenance was up two per cent over last year.