Metro Detroit is bracing for its first big snowfall of the season, arriving just as many people return from Thanksgiving travel.
Travelers are advised to allow extra time to reach their destinations, whether they are heading to the airport or to work.
Scott Cabauatan, Wayne County deputy director of public services, said, “We’re looking at once it starts… When is it going to end? Where is it going?”
The countdown to snow is on. Plow crews are ready to clear the roads, and homeowners are stocking up to clear driveways and sidewalks.
“You know everybody has to have a shovel, right? And salt so nobody slips, so usually those are the items that start going out first,” said Gary Shingles, owner of Studz Hardware.
Wayne County has been preparing for this storm for months.
“We’ve been preparing for this since July, making sure our plows are ready, checking the equipment, purchasing additional equipment, servicing the equipment, and making sure we’re ready for days like this as they come upon us,” Cabauatan said.
Their top priority is clearing main roads to keep traffic moving smoothly.
If the snowfall exceeds six inches, crews will move into residential areas.
State law requires drivers to maintain a minimum distance of 200 feet from a moving snowplow.
“Give us plenty of room. I promise, yes, it’s going to be a little slower following our trucks, but it’s better than going off into a ditch or going into an accident and someone getting hurt,” Cabauatan advised.
Gary Shingles said he thought he had more time before the winter rush, but now it’s full speed ahead.
When asked about the situation, Shingles replied, “Chaos.”
He recommends checking snow equipment now to ensure it works before the snowfall.
That way, if repairs or replacements are needed, there is still time to prepare.