Winter Weather Alert: Tulsa Pre-Treating Roads For Sleet And Snow

Viktoria Ivanova

4 min read

Post on May 02, 2025

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Tulsa's Winter Weather Preparedness Plan

The City of Tulsa boasts a comprehensive plan to combat winter weather events, involving coordinated efforts between multiple agencies, most notably the City of Tulsa Streets & Stormwater and the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT). This collaborative approach ensures a swift and efficient response to minimize disruptions caused by sleet and snow. The plan encompasses a multi-phased approach focusing on prevention and rapid response.

• Timeline of Pre-Treatment Activities: Pre-treatment activities, primarily involving the application of brine, typically begin several days before a predicted winter storm, depending on the forecast's certainty and severity. Snow plow deployment is strategically timed to coincide with the onset of precipitation.
• Materials Used: The City of Tulsa utilizes brine, a saltwater solution, as its primary pre-treatment material. Brine is cost-effective, environmentally friendly compared to other de-icers, and requires lower application rates than traditional salt. In some areas, salt may be used as a supplementary measure.
• Geographic Prioritization: Road treatment prioritization follows a tiered system. Major arteries and emergency routes receive pre-treatment and plowing first to ensure emergency services and essential travel remain accessible. Residential streets are treated as conditions allow and resources become available.

Understanding Pre-Treatment: Brine and its Benefits

Pre-treating roads with brine before the snow or sleet even falls is a crucial part of Tulsa’s winter weather strategy. This proactive approach offers significant advantages over reacting after the precipitation begins.

• Preventing Ice Formation: Brine works by lowering the freezing point of water, preventing ice from bonding to the road surface. This prevents the formation of black ice, a significant cause of accidents.
• Cost-Effectiveness: While the initial investment in brine application may seem significant, the reduced need for salt later, along with the prevention of accidents and resulting road closures, makes it a cost-effective solution in the long run.
• Environmental Impact: Brine has a lower environmental impact than many other de-icing agents, reducing the negative effects on water sources and vegetation.
• Lower Usage Rates: The effectiveness of brine means that far less material needs to be used compared to traditional salt, further reducing environmental impact and costs.

What Tulsa Residents Should Do

Staying safe during winter weather requires preparation and vigilance. Tulsa residents should take the following precautions:

• Stay Informed: Monitor weather forecasts closely through reputable sources like local news channels (e.g., News On 6, KJRH), the National Weather Service, and weather apps. Be aware of winter weather alerts and advisories.
• Limit Travel: Avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy snow or sleet. If travel is unavoidable, drive slowly and cautiously.
• Prepare an Emergency Kit: Assemble a kit including a flashlight, extra batteries, bottled water, non-perishable food, blankets, and any necessary medications.
• Check on Vulnerable Neighbors: Check in on elderly or disabled neighbors to ensure their safety and well-being during severe weather.

Reporting Road Hazards

If you encounter hazardous road conditions, such as downed power lines, significant ice accumulation, or unplowed areas, report them to the City of Tulsa immediately. You can do this by:

• Calling 311: The city's 311 service line is available to report non-emergency situations, including road hazards.
• Using the City's Website: The City of Tulsa website may provide online reporting options for road conditions.
• Utilizing a Mobile App: Check for a city-specific app that may offer a way to report issues directly.

Tracking Tulsa's Snow Removal Progress

To monitor the progress of snow removal operations, residents can check the City of Tulsa's website and social media channels. These resources often provide updates, maps showing plow locations, and real-time information on road conditions. Look for interactive maps or dashboards that might be available during winter storms.

Conclusion

Tulsa’s proactive approach to winter weather, including its commitment to Tulsa pre-treating roads for sleet and snow, demonstrates a dedication to public safety. By understanding the benefits of pre-treatment with brine and taking the necessary precautions, residents can help ensure their own safety and contribute to the smooth functioning of the city during winter storms. Stay safe this winter, check the City of Tulsa's winter weather updates, and remember that Tulsa is pre-treating roads for sleet and snow to ensure your safety. [Link to City of Tulsa Website]