As severe winter weather is expected to hit Alabama next week, transportation officials are warning about hazardous road conditions.

The Alabama Department of Transportation said it’s planning extensive pretreatment operations across the state and will continue clearing roadways whenever snowfall begins.

Efforts to pretreat roads to minimize potential ice formation will likely begin Saturday evening through Monday.

A winter storm is expected to cause snow across Alabama, with the heavier snowfall predicted to hit south of Interstate 20.

ALDOT said it will continue to monitor road conditions but will prioritize bridges and interstate highways first, followed by U.S. and state highways based on traffic volume.

The transportation department is recommending motorists follow these important safety tips:

• Avoid travel until conditions improve: Once winter precipitation begins, ALDOT urges motorists to avoid travel during adverse weather and roadway conditions.
• Slow down: Reduce your speed and increase your following distance, allowing extra room to stop. Plan additional travel time to reach your destination.
• Be aware of black ice: Bridges and overpasses are particularly susceptible to black ice, which is a thin, invisible layer of ice.
• Avoid sudden braking and steering: These actions can cause your vehicle to lose control.
• Turn on your headlights: This will make your vehicle more visible to other drivers.
• Avoid using cruise control on icy roads: This can cause you to lose control of your vehicle if you hydroplane.
• Watch for workers: Be aware of emergency personnel and crews treating and clearing roadways.
• Move crashed vehicles: In the event of a minor crash, safely move vehicles off the roadway if possible to maintain access for first responders and treatment crews. Do not abandon vehicles in travel lanes.