Drivers urged to be cautious on rural, untreated roads [Video]

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ala. (WBRC) – While ALDOT handles major state highways during icy weather, cities are often responsible for the roads in rural communities.

Jefferson County has 34 cities, and each one has different resources for treating and sanding roads during the winter.

Before the roads ice over, the Jefferson County Emergency Management Agency is getting an early start on Friday. They will arrive around 1 a.m. to monitor the conditions.

“That’s what we actually do in our Emergency Operations Center when we’re activated in events like this,” said Melissa Sizemore, an Emergency Management Officer with the Jefferson County EMA. “We’re in constant contact with our public works, or road departments, to be able to get that information.”

If drivers must travel on rural roads, she adds they should not rush because there could be black ice.

“It’s invisible, so you can’t see it,” Sizemore said. “When your car hits that black ice …