Managing Traffic Operations During Adverese Weather Events

In 2005, the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users directed FHWA and its partners to (1) maximize use of available road weather information and technologies; (2) expand road weather research and development efforts to enhance roadway safety, capacity, and efficiency while minimizing environmental impacts; and (3) promote technology transfer of effective scientific and technological advances. A 2009 followup study, Microscopic Analysis of Traffic Flow in Inclement Weather (FHWA-JPO09-066), analyzed the impacts of adverse weather on microscopic traffic behavior.\n For example, a transportation agency can use the design guide to identify the specific content, format, and delivery mechanisms for warnings and advisory messages to travelers who will be driving on a highway corridor that is experiencing adverse weather such as heavy snow, rain, or fog.