You'll want to be careful if you're planning to head out on the roads. The good news is road crews say they're prepared for what old man winter may throw at us. There is lots of work, from preparing the trucks to planning their routes.
Trucks are revved up and salt is piled up and ready to go! Snowplows are geared up for the coming snow!
With 10 trucks and 517 streets to be plowed, whether Raleigh County gets 1 inch or 3 feet, Beckley Public Works is ready to plow your street for you.
"I just encourage folks if they have vehicles on the street, if they have driveways to get them off the streets if they can. Try to stay off the roads when the snows coming down so we can get the salt down and get the streets plowed," said Board of Public Works Jerry Stump.
Heavy Equipment Manager Russell Lilly pops the hood and shows us what workers look for when getting prepared for wintry weather.
"First we check all your fluids, oil levels and lights. Make sure all your safety lights and any connections out here on the bumper are pretty susceptible to the elements," said Heavy Equipment Manager Russell Lilly.
West Virginia Department of Transportation's Division of Highways Joe Pack describes the new mobile phone application and interactive website. They both allow you to track severe weather and where the heavily congested roads are.
"One thing we have now that the public can check out is our 511 website. Basically it does real time updates whether it be weather related or construction. It is an app that you can download to your iPhone or android phone," said West Virginia Division of Highways Joe Pack.
While the job may be demanding, Pack says its rewarding as well.
"The reward is in itself being able to drive home and see that the roads are clear and be able to see that the roads and your family and friends are safe."
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