(The Center Square) – Winter drivers in Wisconsin are getting an update to their road forecasts, just ahead of a weekend snow storm.
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation on Wednesday announced changes to the state’s 511 website, specifically a new set of road condition categories.
“We continually look for ways to enhance our 511 Wisconsin traveler information service,” WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman said. “As we prepare for another winter season, we’re excited to announce these new road condition categories.”
Those new categories are:
● Normal
● Partially Covered
● Completely Covered
● Travel Not Advised
There is also a ‘no report’ category.
WisDOT says the idea is to simplify the information about how snowy the state’s roads are. Drivers can find those conditions either at WisDOT’s 511 website or 511 app.
“We know that road conditions during Wisconsin’s winters can change in the blink of an eye and drivers must expect the unexpected. We’re confident the updated winter road condition categories will help drivers make informed travel decisions this winter and beyond,” Boardman said.
Wisconsin launched the 511 system in 2009. Since then, it’s been providing drivers and the State Patrol with close to real time updates on how much snow and ice is on the state’s interstate system.
State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan says the system has been more than helpful over the past 15 years.
“The Wisconsin State Patrol and other law enforcement agencies coordinate with Traffic Management Center staff and dispatchers working around the clock to keep all travelers in the know,” Carnahan added. “Our winter weather in Wisconsin can make driving dangerous at times, so we encourage drivers to plan ahead, watch your speed during inclement weather and avoid distractions behind the wheel.”
In addition to the road condition reports, the 511 system allows drivers to look at the state’s traffic camera system and report accidents.
You can find the 511 website online and find the app at the state’s website.