At 3:45 a.m. Monday, the National Weather Service issued a Winter Weather Advisory in effect from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Wednesday for Allegany County.
“Total snow accumulations of 5 to 9 inches with the most persistent lake snows. Winds gusting to 55 mph,” can be expected, according to the weather service. “Projected snowfall amounts could be higher where lake bands persist during this long event.”
“Travel will be very difficult. Hazardous conditions will affect the Monday evening and Tuesday morning commute,” the weather service explained. “Lake effect snow will fall in relatively narrow bands. Be prepared for rapidly changing road conditions and visibility when traveling.”
Winter Weather Wisdom: Driving Tips from the Weather Service 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 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 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 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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