The decision to begin snow and ice control treatment begins with a good weather forecast and knowledge of the weather trends for your area. Maintenance supervisors have a number of alternatives available to aid in finding accurate weather forecasts to help determine when to begin snow and ice control measures.

Local news stations’ daily broadcasts are generally the initial warning that adverse conditions are to be expected and planning needs to begin. Monitoring these broadcasts can provide vital information on when to begin preparations.

This chapter provides additional sources of accurate and timely weather information and offers definitions of National Weather Service advisories and warnings.