Few crashes were reported Wednesday across the Triangle as drivers headed out on slick roads.

Most major routes are clear, including I-40, I-440, U.S. 1, I-540 and U.S. 70, but some secondary roads remain covered in snow Wednesday afternoon, and those spots could refreeze overnight. 

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The dangerous road conditions stretching into Thursday morning have prompted another WRAL Weather Alert Day, and many school districts have already shifted to remote learning for Thursday.

The Apex Police Department shared photos of trouble spots Wednesday afternoon, including Lufkin Road by Lufkin Middle School, Old U.S. 1 at 540, James Street, Salem Street, Laura Duncan Road near Apex Community Park, Olive Chapel Road by Ashley Downs, and Kelly Road at Jenks Road.

The Durham County Sheriff's Office posted a similar warning, listing Cheek Road at Little Rogers Road, Massey Chapel Road at James Rodd, Rose of Sharon Road at Guess Road, Carpenter Road at Junction Road, Olive Branch Road at Wake Forest Highway, Patterson Road and others.

Other secondary roads are clearing. A trip around Durham Wednesday afternoon showed major improvement on the main roads in the downtown area. WRAL meteorologist Aimee Wilmoth said many of the streets had cleared up with the sunlight.

In Raleigh, WRAL reporter Chelsea Donovan reported from Wake Forest Road, which was clear.

No crashes with serious injuries have been reported, but there were several crashes on major routes Wednesday morning. A southbound lane of U.S. 1 was closed around 9:30 a.m. due to a crash, and another crash was reported off I-440 at Melbourne Road. 

Later on, two lanes were closed on Interstate 40 West at Exit 306 for U.S. 70, near Garner.

Frigid temperatures won't melt snow

Highs on Wednesday will hover near freezing. Even if roads look clear, there could be slick patches. State officials are urging people to stay home if possible. If you must venture out, drive slowly and allow time to brake. Make sure your car is clear of ice and snow before driving.

WRAL meteorologist Elizabeth Gardner said road conditions should improve by the afternoon, but refreezing overnight could cause slick spots again overnight and Thursday morning.

NC DOT took several measures in the days leading up to the snow, including salt brining the roads around North Carolina. In Wake County alone, crews applied nearly 87,000 gallons of brine to the roads.

DOT told WRAL News that once .75 inches of snow has stuck to the grounds, more than 300 snow plows will be ready to go between Durham, Wake, Franklin, Vance, Person and Granville counties.

NC DOT shared the following tips to make sure you don’t get trapped on the road during the snow.

  • Avoid driving until road conditions improve
    • Slow down! Drive cautiously and slowly
      • Use proper tires and chains
        • Stay in your car if you’re stuck
          • Use salt or sand on driveways and walkways
            • Prepare an emergency kit.

              “It’s not rocket science,” Sgt. Christopher Knox with the North Carolina Highway Patrol said. “It’s all about speed [and] slowing down.

              There are some ways you can get your car ready for winter travel.