Greenville, N.C. – A mix of sleet, freezing rain, and snow fell across Greenville on Wednesday, creating hazardous road conditions as temperatures dropped to their lowest. With many streets refreezing overnight, driving conditions have remained challenging.
Greenville Public Works Director Kevin Mulligan acknowledged the difficulties posed by the icy roads, stating that while a little snow is manageable, ice presents a greater challenge. The Greenville Public Works Department has been working continuously since before the snowfall began, employing pre-treatment methods such as salting roads, followed by brine application and plowing, in an effort to improve driving conditions.
According to Mulligan, the city’s response involved applying brine for several days before switching to rock salt as precipitation increased. Major roads, intersections, bridges, and hills were given priority. Once the sun helped melt some of the ice, crews used plows to clear as much of the remaining snow and slush as possible. He noted that significant progress had been made on the city’s main roads.
Despite these efforts, driving on icy roads remains a challenge for many residents. One driver, Shaka Jones, described the experience as difficult, noting that the wheels could easily spin out or hydroplane. While acknowledging the city’s road treatment efforts, he pointed out that ice is still present on the streets, posing potential dangers.
Officials are urging drivers to exercise caution, especially at night when refreezing is likely. Mulligan advised those who must be on the roads to drive slowly and carefully, as melted snow and slush will turn back into ice as temperatures continue to drop. He emphasized the importance of taking extra precautions when traveling late at night or early in the morning when road conditions can rapidly change.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation and encourage residents to stay updated on weather advisories. Those who do not need to drive are urged to stay off the roads until conditions improve.
