The National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning at 12:45 p.m. Wednesday in effect from 1 p.m. until 1 a.m. Thursday for Genesee County.
The weather service adds to be prepared for: “Total snow accumulations of 5 to 10 inches.”
“Travel will be very difficult with snow-covered roads and very poor visibility. Hazardous conditions will affect the Wednesday morning and evening commute,” the weather service said. “Widespread accumulating snow will create hazardous travel conditions. 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 prepared for rapid changes in weather, visibility and road conditions.”
Winter Driving Guide: Tips from the Weather Service for safe and healthy 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 there is ice on the roadways and adjust your driving accordingly. Be aware of ice accumulating 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 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 the latest road conditions so you can make an informed decision.
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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