NCDOT crews struggle to remove ice

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The North Carolina Department of Transportation issued a press release Saturday detailing the ongoing cleanup efforts in Southeastern North Carolina.

According to the release, crews were out in force to remove ice in Brunswick, New Hanover, Onslow, Pender, Sampson, and Duplin counties.

A combination of factors including low overnight temperatures and the ineffectiveness of salt to melt the remaining ice has created challenges for crews.

NCDOT says interstates in the region are mostly clear with icy spots, but other highways and primary routes vary by county. In Brunswick, New Hanover and Onslow counties, main roads are partially covered with snow and ice. Four-lane divided roads in Pender and Duplin counties are clear with icy spots, as are most primary roads in Sampson County. Most secondary roads across the region remain covered by snow and ice. Crews will shift their focus to those roads once the divided and primary roads are clear.

Road-clearing assistance has come from as far away as the northwest section of the state. Joining local workers are crews with 19 additional trucks with spreaders, plows, and 10 motor-graders, which help push melting ice off the roads.

Transportation officials urge drivers to avoid going out if possible. Those who must venture out on the roads are advised to slow down and leave extra space between their vehicle and the vehicle in front of them to lessen the chance of a collision.

In addition, drivers who encounter NCDOT road clearing crews and their equipment should leave plenty of distance to allow crews to spread salt and safely plow the road.