Citation

Laurinavicius A, Čygas D, Ciuprinskas K, Jukneviciute L. Balt. J. Road Bridge Eng. 2007; 2(1): 5-11.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2007, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Publisher Technika)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Lithuanian climatic conditions set demanding requirements for winter road and street maintenance. In Lithuania, the air temperature is below zero for 3-4 months/year. The longest period of cold weather is in eastern Lithuania, and the shortest is in the coastal area. On average, the first snow cover forms from the middle of November and remains until the middle of March. Moreover, in winter, thaws are frequent in Lithuania and the temperature fluctuates around zero. There is also a high probability of glazed frost, freezing rain, and fog. In most European countries, road weather information systems have been established. The aim of these systems is to reduce road maintenance costs in winter, to ensure good traffic safety, and to inform drivers about poor traffic conditions. The following main components make up the integrated road weather information system: 1) spatial analysis of the road microclimate to produce temperature graphs; 2) road pavement and atmospheric characteristic sensors providing information on the actual weather conditions on the roads; and 3) computer and information network. The road engineer receives all information in a form which enables its quick use, allowing for necessary actions to be taken. It also enables collection of external data on weather conditions, which, upon its statistical analysis, can be used for road design, construction, repair, and maintenance.