LINCOLN — As Nebraska continues to dig out from a record-breaking snowfall in many areas of the state, the Nebraska State Patrol and Nebraska Department of Transportation continue to urge caution on roadways throughout the state.
During the storm Monday and its immediate aftermath Tuesday, troopers responded to over 600 weather related incidents, including 534 motorist assists, 53 crashes, and 34 assists for other agencies. Troopers and dispatchers continued to help large numbers of motorists Wednesday, with another 86 motorist assists performed today, as of 5:00 p.m. CT.
“Our team stepped-up once again and responded to this incredible storm with a fierce dedication to helping people,” said Colonel John Bolduc, Superintendent of the Nebraska State Patrol. “There’s no way to truly quantify the work our troopers, dispatchers, and civilian support team have done this week. They started early, stayed late, and never lost focus on the mission of keep Nebraska safe during this storm.”
Nebraska Department of Transportation crews also worked non-stop starting Sunday evening and continuing through today to clear Nebraska roadways and keep traffic moving. NDOT plows have covered thousands of miles on Interstate 80 and other major highways around the state.
“This latest storm tested our forces with the amount of snow over a long period of time,” said Moe Jamshidi, Acting Director of NDOT. “Thanks to their efforts, along with our partners at NSP, we were able to keep our roadways open. Our crews’ efforts don’t stop after the storm, as cleanup will continue as needed. Please give them the room they need to keep the roadways open.”
NDOT and NSP teams continue to respond to the aftermath of Monday’s snowstorm. Any motorist on the roads should use caution in affected areas. As some of the snow melts and temperatures remain low, the potential for refreeze exist. All drivers should check the Nebraska 511 system at www.511.nebraska.gov or on the 511 app to get updated road conditions before traveling. Anyone who becomes stranded on the road can call *55 to reach the NSP Highway Helpline and speak with an NSP dispatcher.