![The snowstorm brought trucking to a halt in Louisiana](https://media-cdn.socastsrm.com/wordpress/wp-content/blogs.dir/2176/files/2024/12/truck-courtesy-of-wikimedia-commons.jpg)
A rare snowstorm in Louisiana caused state officials to shut down the 270-mile stretch of Interstate 10, disrupting transportation. The trucking industry faced significant challenges, with many truckers unable to move loads due to road closures. Louisiana Moto Transportation Association Executive Director Renee noted drivers were stuck waiting for conditions to improve.
“We only have two or three options for truckers. It’s not like a myriad of things you can choose from. You’re only gonna do one of two things. You’re going to find an alternative route or you’re gonna stay put essentially where you are.”
Amar says the lack of safe truck parking further complicated matters, as trucks resorted to parking on interstate shoulders, creating safety hazards.
“We only have one parking space for every eleven truck drivers on that are on the road. So it’s a great hazard for obviously the motoring public. It’s a big hazard for our truck drivers, which is our biggest concern.”
The storm tied a record for snow accumulation in New Orleans, with snow and ice lingering for days. Amar views the event as an opportunity to improve preparedness for future extreme weather impacts on transportation and find a balance for truckers on the road.
“And I think the state tried to do that as well. They tried to leave some alternative routes open, and we really greatly appreciated that.”
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