At 12:42 p.m. Tuesday, the National Weather Service issued a Winter Storm Warning for Cayuga County until 7 a.m. Wednesday.
“Additional snow accumulation between 6 and 12 inches. Wind gusts up to 50 mph,” can be expected, according to the weather service. “The heaviest lake effect snow will be near Sennett for Cayuga County. 1 to 2 inches per hour is possible Tuesday morning. Widespread blowing snow will create whiteout conditions and occasional blizzard conditions. Snowfall amounts will decrease significantly in the far southern end of Cayuga County.”
“Visibility may drop below 1/4 mile due to falling and blowing snow. Whiteout conditions are expected, making travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening. Travel may be very difficult. Areas of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. Hazardous conditions could affect the Tuesday morning and evening commute. Gusty winds could down trees,” the weather service added. “If you must travel, keep a flashlight, extra food and water in your vehicle in case of emergency. Call 5 1 1 for the latest road conditions for the state you are calling from.”
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 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:
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 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, 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 snowplows and give them plenty of room to pass. 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 current 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.
Leave a Reply