Frigid temps don't create major issues during commute

No major issues were reported on Triangle-area interstates and primary roads during a frigid Thursday commute, but some of the area's secondary roads and neighborhoods are still dealing with slick conditions after this week's double shot of winter weather.

Posted 10:35 a.m. Feb 19, 2015 — Updated 2:12 p.m. Feb 19, 2015

RALEIGH, N.C. — No major issues were reported on Triangle-area interstates and primary roads during a frigid Thursday commute, but some of the area's secondary roads and neighborhoods are still dealing with slick conditions after this week's double shot of winter weather.

Several cars, including a North Carolina State Highway Patrol cruiser, got stuck on a hill Thursday morning near the intersection of Victory Church and Norwood roads north of Interstate 540 in Raleigh.

Lumley Road near Page Road in Durham was also a problem spot, according to WRAL traffic reporter Brian Shrader.

Temperatures were in the teens across the area at 9 a.m., and wind chills were hovering in the single digits. Daytime highs won't climb much at all, warming only into the upper teens by Thursday afternoon.

Some secondary roads and many neighborhood streets have yet to be treated by state Department of Transportation crews following Monday and Tuesday's shot of winter weather, and some of those spots could be especially problematic until the sun comes up.

Gardner said additional melting could occur by midday Thursday thanks to abundant sunshine.

"Even though temperatures are going to be in the teens all day, we will have some sun out today, and that will help melt some of the ice that's left on the roads," Gardner said.

A wreck late Wednesday closed one lane of Interstate 95 North near the North Carolina-Virginia border.

For those that must head out to work or school, Wake County officials offered the following tips for driving on slick roads:

Have at least half a tank of gasoline in your vehicle.
Make sure your tires are properly inflated.
Have an emergency kit with you in case you get stuck.
Drive slowly. Leave three times the distance between other cars than you would during ideal drive conditions.
Do not brake unless you have to; the best way to slow down is ease off the gas. If you have to brake, brake gently.
Do not use cruise control.
If tires skid, take your foot off the gas and steer to the direction of the skid.

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