URGENT UPDATE: A winter weather advisory has just been issued by the National Weather Service for several counties in New York, effective from 4 p.m. today until 1 p.m. Saturday. Residents in Herkimer, Fulton, Montgomery, Saratoga, Schenectady, Albany, Rensselaer, and Columbia counties should prepare for significant snowfall, with total accumulations expected between 3 and 7 inches.
Snow is forecasted to develop from west to east across the affected areas around or shortly after sunset today, leading to periods of light to moderate snowfall throughout the night. As conditions worsen, the snow is expected to taper off to scattered flurries by Saturday morning, but the early hours could see treacherous road conditions.
Officials warn that these hazardous conditions may severely impact the evening commute. “Plan on slippery road conditions,” the weather service advises, urging drivers to “slow down and use caution while traveling.” Winter weather can be deadly, contributing to over 6,000 weather-related vehicle fatalities and more than 480,000 injuries annually.
To ensure safety during these icy conditions, drivers are advised to exercise extreme caution. Temperatures are hovering around freezing, increasing the risk of icy patches. Be mindful of potential ice accumulation on power lines and tree branches, as they can break and pose serious dangers. If driving is necessary, choose routes that minimize exposure to trees and power lines, and never approach downed power lines.
For those venturing out, the National Weather Service recommends several critical winter driving tips:
1. **Share your travel plans**: Inform family or friends about your destination and expected arrival time.
2. **Prepare your vehicle**: Ensure your tank is full and pack essential winter supplies like a windshield scraper, jumper cables, a small shovel, flashlight, cell phone, warm clothing, drinking water, and high-calorie snacks.
3. **Stay calm if stranded**: If you become stuck, notify someone of your situation and stay with your vehicle. Use a cloth on your antenna to signal for help and increase your vehicle’s visibility with dome lights and flashers.
4. **Be aware of snow plows**: Give snow plows ample space and only pass them when the road ahead is clear.
5. **Check road conditions**: Always verify current road conditions before traveling to make informed decisions.
These guidelines are crucial for reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring safety during challenging winter weather. As the snow begins to fall, stay tuned for further updates and prepare for a potentially dangerous commute this evening. Share this information with friends and family to keep everyone safe!
