UPDATE: A winter weather advisory has been issued for parts of New York, with significant snowfall expected. The National Weather Service confirmed the advisory just after 12:58 a.m. on Friday, effective from 4 p.m. today until 1 p.m. Saturday, affecting counties including Herkimer, Fulton, Montgomery, Schenectady, Saratoga, Albany, Rensselaer, and Columbia.
Residents should prepare for total snow accumulations ranging from 3 to 7 inches. Snow will begin to develop from west to east around or shortly after sunset, transitioning into periods of light to moderate snowfall throughout the night. Conditions are expected to taper off to scattered snow showers Saturday morning.
The National Weather Service cautions that these hazardous conditions could severely impact the evening commute. “Plan on slippery road conditions,” the advisory states. “Slow down and use caution while traveling.” With winter’s icy grip leading to over 6,000 weather-related vehicle fatalities and more than 480,000 injuries annually, safety should be the top priority for all drivers.
As temperatures hover near freezing, motorists are urged to assume the presence of icy patches on roads. Watch for ice accumulating on power lines and tree branches, which may break and fall. If you must travel, consider routes with fewer trees and power lines. In the event of encountering downed power lines, call 911 immediately and do not approach them.
Here are essential winter weather driving tips to ensure safety during these challenging conditions:
– **Share your plans:** Inform family or friends about your destination, route, and estimated time of arrival.
– **Prepare your vehicle:** Keep your gas tank full and carry winter essentials like a windshield scraper, jumper cables, small shovel, flashlight, cell phone, blanket, extra warm clothing, drinking water, and non-perishable high-calorie food.
– **Stay calm if stranded:** If you become stranded, inform someone of your situation and location. Avoid walking to safety; instead, signal for help by attaching a cloth to your car’s antenna or mirror and make your vehicle visible with dome lights and flashers.
– **Mind snow plows:** Keep a safe distance from snow plows and only overtake them when the road ahead is clear.
– **Check road conditions:** Prior to travel, verify current road conditions to make informed decisions.
These tips from the National Weather Service are vital for a safer journey during winter weather. By following these guidelines, drivers can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure their safety on snow-covered roads.
Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops.
