Roads in Warren County have been hazardous since Monday and, despite some improvement, officials continue to urge motorists to stay cautious while driving.

The Warren County Highway Department has been working hard to clear the roadways these past few days, but some roads in the county are still slick. Due to the snowfall and extremely low temperatures, road conditions will remain hazardous until temperatures climb. 

Despite the dangerous roadways, there has not been a significant increase in vehicle accidents according to Warren County Sheriff Jackie Matheny Jr. and McMinnville Police Chief Nichole Mosley.

Matheny thanks the citizens of Warren County for listening to the various warnings put out by law enforcement during this inclement weather.

“Conditions began to deteriorate in the early morning hours of Monday, Jan. 15 and continued until early Wednesday morning, causing great concern for our citizens,” said Matheny. “I am happy to advise you that we did not have an increase in accidents with injuries. Most calls we responded to were to assist in pulling drivers out of ditches or calls with very minor damage.”

Chief Mosley reported an average amount of weather-related wrecks in the city as of Wednesday.

“Since Jan. 14, we have had four crashes related to weather in the city. We typically average three crashes a day so we have not had an increase due to the winter storm. There have not been as many drivers on the road,” said Mosley.

As of Thursday, many roads had been cleared, but there are still many covered in snow and ice. The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT)asks motorists not to drive in dangerous conditions if they can help it. TDOT reports they have responded to hundreds of incidents with many involving single vehicles.

Sheriff Matheny warns citizens to remain cautious over the next few days. He said he will keep the county updated on road conditions on the Warren County Sheriff’s Department Facebook page.

“Even though our main roads have been partially, if not completely, cleared, I want to caution our citizens that the side and back roads remain icy and slick, and that each person should continue to use caution if you have to drive,” said Matheny. “We will not see a significant improvement in these roads until the temperature rises to above freezing. I am concerned that this weekend will bring further bad driving conditions because of a forecast of more rain and freezing temperatures.”

Chief Mosley encourages people to only get out if they have to.

“Only drive if you absolutely need to. Drive slowly and don’t be in a hurry. When turning onto another road or on a curve, go the speed that you need so you don’t need to accelerate or brake. Drive with lights on and use turn signals. Dress warm, have plenty of gas in your vehicle and blankets,” suggested Mosley.

The melting snow reportedly began refreezing Thursday night. The conditions of the roads likely will not improve until temperatures reach above freezing. Be sure to use caution while traveling.