At 12:38 p.m. Friday, the National Weather Service issued a Winter Weather Advisory in effect from 5:00 a.m. until 7:00 a.m. Saturday for South Herkimer.
“Total snow accumulations of up to 3 to 5 inches in the heaviest lake effect areas,” can be expected, according to the weather service. “A band of lake-effect snow is expected to fall into southern Herkimer County this morning and may impact the Thruway late this morning into this evening before lifting back north and weakening tonight.”
“Plan on slippery roads. Hazardous conditions could affect the Friday evening commute,” the weather service added. “During a lake effect snowfall, the weather can vary from bands of locally heavy snow to dry conditions just a few miles away. Visibility can also vary greatly. Be prepared for rapid changes in weather, visibility and road conditions. Slow down and use caution when traveling.”
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 traveling outside the city 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 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 composed. 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 current road conditions so you can make informed travel decisions.
Stay safe on winter roads with these valuable winter driving tips from the Weather Service and reduce the risk of accidents in challenging weather conditions.
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