"Snow and Ice" forecast this weekend... (Austin: home, schools)

[oceanpoetry]

Snow and ice is in the forecast for Austin on Saturday. I work on Saturday, and was wondering about road conditions. If there is snow and ice, is it usually travel on the freeway (because there is more traffic, which might minimize build up of ice) or on surface streets (and travel at lower speed). Either option for me, will mean travelling over bridges, which I know can have increased risk for ice.

Thanks in advance!

oceanpoetry-not-used-to-snow

[EzPeterson]

I usually prefer the slower speed surface street routes in icy conditions.

[scm53]

Warm ground temps all thus week mean not much will stick - even if there is freezing rain Fri night.

Good idea to proceed cautiously over bridges.

[oceanpoetry]

Thank you, EzPeterson! I am glad I have options and my commute is only about 10-miles each direction.

[gpurcell]

Doubt it will even be below freezing in the central city.

[Trainwreck20]

Best way to drive if it actually ices up is by leaving your car in your garage......

[oceanpoetry]

Well, I guess would be possible if you are are a "retired slacker". I understand staying home if ice and snow all over and businesses and schools close. For limited snow and ice, really appreciate the advice from those experienced with winter driving here in Austin.

[oceanpoetry]

Originally Posted by gpurcell

Doubt it will even be below freezing in the central city.

The temps are forecast down to the 20's this week coming up according to accuweather!
http://www.accuweather.com/en/us/aus...orecast/351193

Brrrr!

[Moonlady]

We rarely get snow and when it does it rarely sticks. Snow isn't the problem - it's ice. Driving on ice is extremely dangerous and if you have never done it, do yourself and the others on the road a favor and don't drive. After the last episode, I swore I would never get out on icy roads again because of the other ignorant drivers.

We usually get ice storms in January and February, so it's a bit early in the season for one. I do agree with the others though that the ground is warm enough that we probably won't see a significant problem. The biggest issue will probably be icy bridges. Slow your speed and keep a steady even speed across the bridge. Whatever you do, don't hit your brakes.

And yes, the major thoroughfares will more likely have less ice due the cars warming up the roads.

[CptnRn]

Originally Posted by oceanpoetry

Well, I guess would be possible if you are are a "retired slacker". I understand staying home if ice and snow all over and businesses and schools close. For limited snow and ice, really appreciate the advice from those experienced with winter driving here in Austin.

I was surprised to learn when I moved here from Denver that my studded snow tires were illegal. Had to replace them in order to pass safety inspection. No one has decent snow tires here because the roads rarely ice up or accumulate much snow, and when they do almost all businesses close for the day. Everyone stays home and has a snow holiday.

That is a good thing, because so few people here know how to drive on ice and snow.