MassDOT's tips to navigate roadway ahead of winter weather conditions

BOSTON — It's about that time again. With a winter weather advisory underway for Thursday evening through Friday morning, Massachusetts Department of Transportation is advising everyone to be cautious when trekking out.

Snowfall is expected to begin later Thursday afternoon and transition to sleet and freezing rain during the evening and overnight hours, continuing through Friday morning. MassDOT says travelers must be mindful of poor visibility while driving and flash freezing.

Snow will arrive first on the south coast by 6 p.m. and continue moving toward Boston around 7 p.m. Boston 25 StormTracker Meteorologists say you should expect immediate snow and sleet accumulation.

LIVE UPDATES: First snow of the season falls tonight

"As always we encourage the public to keep an eye on the forecast, allow extra time if you must travel, and if driving to please reduce speeds and give plenty of space to crews which are out plowing and treating the roadways,” MassDOT said in a release.

MassDOT will deploy snow plows throughout the Commonwealth as necessary and crews are already conducting preparation activities in advance of the winter weather. For example, they will be pre-treating roadways with brine and magnesium chloride.

If you must go out on the road, remember to wear your seatbelt, minimize distractions and turn off or put away the cell phone. Please!

More important winter driving tips from MassDOT:

•    Clear snow and ice from all windows and lights, even the hood and roof, before driving, (start with the tailpipe).
•    Leave plenty of room for stopping.
•    Remember that the posted speed limits are for dry pavement.
•    Use brakes carefully. Brake early. Brake correctly. It takes more time and distance to stop in adverse conditions.
•    Bridge decks freeze first. Due to the difference in the exposure to air, the surface condition can be  worse on a bridge than on the approach road.
•    Exit ramps are an even greater challenge during the winter since they may have received less anti-icing material than the main line.
•    Leave room for maintenance vehicles and plows – stay back at least 200 feet and don't pass on the  right.
•    Seat belts should be worn at all times – it's the law.
•    Most importantly please remember to slow down!

Cox Media Group