Driving on roads covered with ash can be hazardous. Ash
is slippery, especially when wet, and moving vehicles
constantly stir up the ash to create billowing clouds that
significantly reduce visibility. These hazards can be
reduced by driving slowly, but conditions (and accidents)
may force temorary road closures. In ash-covered areas,
travelers can become stranded for several days and supplies
and shipments may be interrupted for days.
Ash that fills roadside ditches and culverts can also lead
to poor drainage during rainfall, which can cause erosion
of the shoulder and road.
|