Wet And Slick Roads Cause Surge In AM Crashes, WSP Urges Caution

TACOMA, WA — After a rash of early-morning crashes across Puget Sound, first responders are reminding drivers that the roads are going to be extra slick through the weekend, and ask that they take it easy the next few days.

Rain has returned to Western Washington after months without much more than a drizzle, and while that's good for the ongoing drought, it isn't so great for our roads. Experts say that during a long dry spell, the roads absorb extra oil, which comes bubbling to the surface when rain returns — meaning there's a bona fide oil slick on most of the freeways.

While troopers haven't logged any serious injuries as of 11 a.m. Friday, they have had to respond to a number of crashes. One of the most dramatic was a one car rollover from the on ramp from I-705 to northbound I-5, but there have been several instances of vehicles losing control and flying off the road.

If you're hitting the road this weekend, East Pierce Fire & Rescue has a few tips for driving in the rain:

• Make sure your wipers and defrosters are working before setting out.
• Turn on your headlines to see and to be seen.
• Leave early and give yourself extra travel time.
• Increase your following distance behind other vehicles.
• Slow down to maintain traction and avoid hydroplaning.
• Check tire pressure and make sure your tire tread is adequate.

While Friday is set to be the gustiest and rainiest day, Saturday and Sunday will see heavy showers and a possibility of thunderstorms.

Related: 'Vigorous' Front Brings Rain And Wind To Puget Sound