City of Huntsville closely monitoring road conditions after winter weather advisory issued
Published on January 6, 2025
The City of Huntsville is closely monitoring road conditions after the National Weather Service forecast office in Huntsville issued a winter weather advisory in effect until 7 p.m. The weather service said light snowfall is expected with up to one inch of accumulation possible and road conditions could deteriorate in those areas.
The advisory includes Madison, Limestone, Morgan and surrounding counties.
A threat of winter weather is also in the forecast for the Huntsville area beginning Thursday night.
Public Works Director Chris McNeese said the City is prepared to treat bridges and elevated roadways if precipitation affects road conditions.
Huntsville Police (HPD) is monitoring roads and will alert Public Works when problem spots are detected. If road conditions warrant, HPD will place barricades to block roads that are closed.
“We would like to remind everyone that if you see barricades, there is a reason that it’s there,” HPD Capt. Stephen Anderson said. “Driving around barricades is against the law and can create dangerous situations. We also urge drivers not to abandon their vehicles in the middle of roadways because those vehicles can create hazards and block first responders. Guide your vehicle to the right of way to keep travel lanes open.”
Huntsville Public Works primarily handles the treatment of roads and streets within the city limits, while the Alabama Department of Transportation manages major arterials such as Governors Drive, Memorial Parkway, U.S. 72 and I-565. Roads and streets outside the city limits fall under the jurisdiction of Madison County.
Public Works has retrofitted 10 of its 1-ton crew cab trucks with plows and bed mounted spreaders, giving the City a total of 15 trucks that can combat slick roadways. Those trucks will be distributed throughout the City in preparation for wintry precipitation.
“Should road conditions warrant treatment, Public Works will deploy a fine stone mixture to enhance traction on bridges and overpasses,” McNeese said. “The City is also prepared to dispatch trucks to blade roadways and spread salt on asphalt to diminish the impact of accumulating wintry precipitation.”
The City asks residents to remain weather aware and take the necessary precautions to remain safe. For more information: Winter weather preparation starts with you.