More snowfall has Mainroad Contracting back out on East Kootenay highways, and the company is dealing with the aftermath of two to five centimetres of snowfall on Tuesday night.
Expecting further flurries for Thursday, Mainroad says plowing and sanding is in progress and advises the public to be aware of plow and sand trucks.
"The snow is powdery and tends to blow around so motorists should be aware of the potential for limited visibility due to blowing snow, particularly around large commercial vehicles," read a statement from the company.
"Priority is being given to highways and major arterial roads with pre-wetted sand being the primary material in use due to temperature."
Despite a warning of freezing rain on Wednesday afternoon, there was no precipitation, however, there is the possibility of snow overnight. Mainroad advises that there will be temperature drops, which could cause ice formation on wet roads.
The company reminds drivers to be cautious when approaching a highway maintenance vehicle, specifically when passing if it has pulled over to the side of the road.
The company also listed a few other things that the public should keep in mind.
· Snow plows move at much slower speeds than other vehicles. On the highway, snow plows normally don't travel faster than 60 km/hr when plowing or spreading winter abrasives.
· Drivers may not be aware that plows are wide and can extend across the centre line of the highway.
· Snow plows, salt or sand trucks throw up snow and spray making it difficult to see. Snow plows have limited visibility and plow truck operators cannot see directly behind their trucks.
· If a snowplow is approaching in oncoming traffic, pull to the right as much as possible and slow down to avoid being hit by winter abrasives. Operators don't always have a chance to turn down their spinners when vehicles are passing.
· Give road maintenance crews room to do their work.
· Remember the road surface ahead of the plow hasn’t been plowed yet, therefore slow down and be patient. The operator will eventually pull over and let you pass safely.