SURFACE TRANSPORTATION WEATHER APPLICATIONS

Abstract

Abstract. Weather threatens surface transportation nationwide and impacts roadway mobility, safety, and productivity. There is a perception that traffic managers can do little about weather. However, three types of mitigation measures—control, treatment, and advisory strategies—may be employed in response to weather threats. Road weather data sharing, analysis, and integration are critical to the development of better road weather management strategies. Environmental information serves as decision support to traffic, maintenance, and emergency managers; and allows motorists to cope with weather effects through trip deferrals, route detours, or driving behavior. The Road Weather Management Program of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) promotes and facilitates deployment of integrated road weather systems, decision support applications, and effective management practices.