At 7:18 p.m. Thursday, the National Weather Service issued an updated winter weather advisory in effect from noon Friday until 7 a.m. Saturday for Steuben and Chemung counties.
“Mixed precipitation is expected. Total accumulations of snow and sleet between 1 and 4 inches and ice accumulations around a light glaze,” the weather service said. “A mix of snow and sleet will move into the area Friday afternoon, with some freezing rain possible in the evening. A wintry mix of snow, sleet and possibly freezing rain continues into the overnight hours before ending early Saturday morning. Localized higher amounts are possible in eastern Lackawanna County, depending on how much the sleet mixes with the snow.”
“Plan on slippery roads. Hazardous conditions could affect the Friday evening commute,” the weather service said. “Slow down and use caution when traveling. In New York, the latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1. In Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and the Pennsylvania Highway Commission are reminding motorists to adjust their speeds based on driving conditions as winter weather affects Pennsylvania roadways.”
Winter Driving Essentials: Weather Service Recommendations for Safe Travel
Winter weather can make for treacherous driving, leading to more than 6,000 weather-related vehicle deaths and more than 480,000 injuries each year. When traveling in snow or freezing rain, prioritize safety by slowing down. In near-freezing temperatures, it’s safest to assume that the roads are icy and adjust your driving accordingly. Watch out for ice build-up on power lines or tree branches, which can lead to snapping and falling hazards. If possible, avoid driving in such conditions. If you must venture out, choose routes with fewer trees and power lines. Never touch a downed power line, and if you come across one, call 911 immediately. Here are more winter driving tips from the weather service:
Share your travel plans:
When venturing out of town in dangerous winter weather, be sure to inform family or friends of your destination, intended route, and estimated time of arrival.
Prepare your vehicle:
Make sure your gas tank is full and equip your vehicle with essential winter supplies, including a windshield scraper, jump leads, a small shovel, flashlight, cell phone, blanket, extra warm clothing, drinking water, and high-calorie nonperishable food.
Stay calm when stuck:
If you get stuck, stay calm. Notify someone of your situation and location. Avoid trying to walk to safety. Attach the cloth to your car’s antenna or mirror and make your vehicle visible with a dome light and blinkers
Beware of snow plows:
Watch out for snow plows and give them plenty of room. Only overtake the plow when you have a clear view of the road ahead.
Check the condition of the road:
Before you hit the road, check the latest road conditions so you can make an informed decision.
These winter driving tips from the weather service are your key to safer driving on snowy roads. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure your comfort during the harsh winter weather.
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