LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — In what many may call a shock to the system, the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) is getting ahead of the storm by ensuring roads are protected and its workforce is in full effect.
While they prepare the roads, there are preparations drivers can take themselves.
"We're throwing everything at this one,” ARDOT Spokesperson Dave Parker said.
ARDOT is deploying hundreds of brine-filled trucks ahead of this weekend's wintry weather.
"Between now and next Wednesday, we’re going to burn through a good 15 to 20,000 cubic yards of salt brine statewide," Parker said.
With a storm system like this one, Parker said they expect a decline in salt brine supply.
"We have options, and we have suppliers," Parker said. "We're not panicking by any means."
However, crews know their job won’t be easy.
"I think mentally everyone understands it's going to be a tough Saturday, Sunday, and Monday," Parker said.
Parker added that their main concern is the below-freezing temperatures the state is expecting.
"When you're talking about wind chills -10 or -15, it's very difficult on the equipment," Parker said. "It breaks down."
Salt brine doesn't perform well when temps dip below 20 degrees. If that happens, the Department of Transportation has to create what they call "super brine."
"We will mix beet juice with the salt brine,” Parker said. “It works in 10 to 17 degrees, but if we hit even lower temperatures below 10 degrees, we'll have to go to liquid calcium chloride."
While ARDOT is preparing its operations, drivers must do the same.
"If your battery is on its last leg, a cold snap like we're about to get could put it over the edge," Nick Chabarria with AAA said.
Chabarria suggested getting your car's battery checked first.
"Have the battery tested so you can preemptively change it," Chabarria said.
Coleman and Son Automotive Owner Dee Coleman said listening to the vehicle is best.
"It'll tell you exactly what's going on with it,” Coleman said. “You may notice a slow start, so if you hear that, go ahead and get that battery changed as soon as possible."
ARDOT and AAA echoed the same advice of staying inside instead of braving the conditions.
They also advise having an emergency kit and jumper cables handy.