The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch in effect from Monday, December 29th at 4:00pm until Thursday, January 1st at 7:00am for Oswego, Jefferson and Lewis counties.
A watch issued Saturday afternoon calls for heavy snow and strong winds in counties around Lake Ontario.
“Strong lake effect is possible. Total snow accumulations in excess of 7 inches are possible in the most persistent lake snows. Winds may gust to 50 miles per hour creating blowing and drifting snow and severely reducing visibility,” the weather service’s advisory said. “Lake-effect snow is expected to oscillate several times downwind of Lake Ontario during this long event.”
“Power outages and tree damage are likely due to ice. Travel will be very difficult on roads covered in deep snow beginning Monday afternoon. Hazardous conditions could affect the Monday morning and evening commute,” the weather service added. “Periods of snow, sleet or freezing rain will result in slippery roads and reduced visibility. Slow down and use caution when driving. Narrow bands of heavy snow can cause rapidly changing road conditions and visibility. Localized travel issues will be possible. During lake-effect snowfall, weather can vary from bands of locally heavy snow with severely reduced visibility to dry conditions just a few miles away. Be ready for rapid changes in road weather, visibility.”
Drive safely in winter: Expert advice from the Met Office for challenging conditions
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:
Share your travel plans:
When traveling out of town in dangerous winter weather, inform your family or friends of your destination, planned route and estimated time of arrival.
Prepare your vehicle:
Make sure your gas tank is full and equip your vehicle with winter essentials such as a windshield scraper, jump leads, small shovel, flashlight, cell phone, blanket, extra warm clothing, drinking water, and high-calorie nonperishable foods.
Stay calm when stuck:
If you get stuck, keep calm. Inform someone about your situation and location. Avoid trying to walk to safety. Attach a cloth to your car’s antenna or mirror to signal that you need help. 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 current road conditions so you can make informed travel decisions.
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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