Three Stages of a Snow Storm

When a storm starts

When a storm starts top priority is given to the Town’s main roads: Route 302, Route 115, Route 35, the River Road and others that have very steep hills. The application of salt /sand begins when frozen precipitation begins to fall. This cycle continues until all the roads are clear until it is no longer effective due to the depth of snow. Drivers will then start to plow accumulated snow.

When snowfall continues

When snowfall continues to accumulate (two to three inches with more expected) plowing of all major roads begins. After heavily traveled roads are clear, the Public works crew begins clearing the secondary roads. The key is to maintain traffic flow.

Some storms can be very difficult to handle. Each storm is diverse, which means the Public Works crew has to be flexible. Temperature, time of day, traffic conditions, rate of snowfall, and texture of snow can be major factors when trying to clear the roads. A storm during the morning or evening commute can cause major problems in comparison to a weekend storm. Heavy wet snow can cause tree and wire damage, power outages and additional equipment stress. Light snow and hurricane winds will cause recurrent snow drifting and ice build- up.

Snow Removal

Once a storm has ended it takes 3 to 6 hours to complete the plowing of all Windham’s roads. There are many occasions Public Works has to plow more than once and go back again to sand/salt before the task is completed. Drifting snow can keep crews out all day and or night.

Storms deposit snow, sleet or freezing rain. After accumulation of this weather, the snow banks on the side of the roads become impossible to see past and affect travel, the Public Works Department commences with snow removal. They physically remove accumulated snow. Loaders and dump trucks are used to eradicate the snow and physically place it elsewhere. The Trackless machine is sent to North and South Windham to remove snow on the sidewalks so pedestrians can move easily without having to walk in the street.

As simple as this sounds, it is very time consuming and laborious. Public Works consists of only 21 men and women. If we do not get to your area first, please be patient. We are well aware snow has accumulated and the need for removal.

SNOW IN STREETS IS A NO-NO