Visibility

Driving condition definitions

Good
Roads are passable. Roads are mostly bare pavement and/or cleared from shoulder to shoulder with no visibility problems. Drivers may encounter sporadic icy patches or packed snow. Generally snow has been cleared and traction is good for most vehicles properly equipped for winter driving.

Fair
Roads are passable with varying conditions. Drivers may encounter some standing water, packed snow, icy patches covering the surface, and/or limited blowing and drifting snow. Generally snow has been cleared and traction is adequate for most vehicles properly equipped for winter driving.

Difficult
Travel is challenging for most vehicles properly equipped for winter driving. Moderate snow accumulation on roads: up to 3”. Drivers may also encounter ice on the road and bridge decks, freezing rain, water on snow or ice. Moderate winds may be present along with blowing or drifting snow causing low visibility. A National Weather Service winter weather warning, watch or advisory may be issued.

Very Difficult
Travel is not advised. Considerable snow accumulation on roads: 4” or more. Drivers may encounter snow drifts, berms, freezing rain, or fog creating very difficult driving. Moderate to high winds may be present along with blowing or drifting snow causing low visibility. Avalanche potential high in areas affected by avalanches. A National Weather Service winter weather warning, watch or advisory may be issued.

Hazardous
Travel is not advised. Road conditions are not suitable for travel. Road may be blocked or impassable due to considerable snow accumulation, freezing rain, ice glaze, or dense fog. High winds may be present, along with blowing and drifting snow causing low visibility or blizzard like conditions. Avalanche potential high in areas affected by avalanches. A National Weather Service winter weather warning, watch or advisory may be issued.

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