The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) will conduct winter weather operations beginning at 9 p.m. Monday, Feb. 15 in Escambia, Santa Rosa and Okaloosa counties in preparation for freezing temperatures forecasted in the region.

FDOT’s winter weather plan has been developed to keep Florida’s highway system safe and operational in all types of weather conditions. Motorists may notice an increased number of FDOT vehicles on state routes as maintenance and operations staff monitor winter weather conditions.

FDOT crews will deploy various tankers, bridge deck sprayers and other equipment to apply anti-icing products on bridges and overpasses to prevent ice from bonding to the pavement surface.

The anti-icing products allows any potential ice layer to melt more quickly and reduces the amount of time required to restore the roads to a clear, dry state. FDOT will collaborate with state and local law enforcement to evaluate roads for closure if icy conditions make it challenging to maintain a drivable roadway.

“Motorists are encouraged to use all available information and follow law enforcement closure announcements until weather conditions improve before venturing out in your vehicle,” wrote FDOT in an announcemnet.