At 7:29 p.m. Monday, the National Weather Service issued an updated snowstorm warning in effect until 8:15 p.m. for Chenango, Cortland, Madison, Oneida and Otsego counties.
“At 7:29 p.m., a hazardous snowstorm developed on a line extending from Clayville to Georgetown to the vicinity of Virgil, moving east at 40 mph,” the weather service said. “Travel will become difficult and potentially dangerous within minutes.”
Localities affected by the warning include Norwich, Paris, Hamilton, Guilford, Brookfield, Virgil, Middlefield, Hartwick, Cooperstown and Edmeston.
The weather service adds: “Wet roadways will freeze quickly. Black ice will make roads, bridges and overpasses slippery and dangerous. Slow down and be prepared for a sudden loss of traction. Reduce your speed and turn on your headlights! During snowstorms, visibility can suddenly drop to near zero in white light conditions. Consider avoiding or delaying driving until the snowstorm passes your location, you need to be careful and take extra care. road conditions can lead to accidents.”
Hazards include flash freezing on roads. Intense flurries of heavy snow. Gusty winds leading to blowing snow and visibility rapidly dropping to less than a quarter of a mile. Wind gusts over 35 mph.
Snowstorms: Risks, Differences, and Safety Risks
What are snow flurries?
Snowstorms are intense winter weather events often associated with strong cold fronts. They can cover roads quickly with snow and ice, even without a major winter storm in the forecast. These storms, which typically last less than an hour and result in smaller snow accumulations, can still be dangerous due to reduced visibility, gusty winds and rapidly dropping temperatures. Unfortunately, these conditions have historically contributed to serious and sometimes fatal traffic accidents.
Understanding Snowstorms and Snowstorms
The difference between a blizzard and a blizzard is the duration of the event. Snowstorms are usually very short-lived (on the order of 30-60 minutes) and extremely intense. A snowstorm can last for hours or even days.
Snow warning
Blizzard warnings are quickly issued for specific areas, similar to tornado or severe thunderstorm warnings. They offer key, localized information aimed at saving lives. If a snowstorm warning is issued in your area, it is best to delay or avoid driving until the storm has moved.
Actions to be taken
In response to a snow warning, individuals should follow guidance provided by the weather service, which includes the following key actions:
Avoid or delay travel: If a snow warning is issued for your area, avoid or postpone motoring until the storm has passed through your area. There really is no safe place to be on the highway during a blizzard.
Reduce speed and increase visibility: If you are already on the road during a blizzard, prioritize safety by reducing your speed. Turn on your headlights and hazard lights to improve visibility for yourself and other drivers.
Keep a safe distance: Leave enough distance between you and the car in front of you.
Avoid sudden braking: It’s also best not to hit the brakes. On slippery/icy roads, this could contribute to loss of vehicle control and also increase the risk of a chain crash.
Safety tips for winter weather: For comprehensive guidance on staying safe before, during and after winter weather, visit the Weather Service’s Winter Weather Safety page. This resource offers valuable information and precautions to help you effectively deal with the challenges of winter weather.
Prepare your vehicle: Before your trip, prepare your vehicle for winter conditions by checking the tires, brakes and lights and verifying that all fluids are at the correct level. A properly maintained vehicle is better prepared to overcome the obstacles of winter driving.
Essential items for your car emergency kit: Make sure your vehicle is equipped with a comprehensive emergency kit containing essentials such as blankets, non-perishable food, water, a flashlight and a first aid kit. Don’t forget to add jumper cables, flares or a reflective triangle, an ice scraper, a car cell phone charger, a map, and cat litter or sand to improve tire traction. These precautions can prove invaluable in the event of an unexpected breakdown or emergency during your trip.
In conclusion, when faced with a snow warning, prioritizing personal safety and following the weather service’s recommendations can significantly mitigate the risks. With understanding, preparation, and vigilance, individuals can navigate these winter hazards with greater confidence and safety.
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