Upstate New York Braces for Winter Storm: Travel Advisory Issued
Table of Contents
Parts of Upstate New York are facing a winter weather advisory, prompting warnings for hazardous driving conditions just before christmas Eve. The National Weather Service issued the advisory at 3:26 a.m.on Tuesday, impacting Herkimer, Hamilton, and Fulton counties until 1 p.m. The advisory warns of “additional snow accumulations between 1 and 3 inches,” according to the NWS.
The NWS further cautioned, “Most of the steady snow will fall through 8 a.m. this morning, tapering off to high-elevation showers within the Advisory area through mid to late morning. Brief periods of moderate snowfall rates up to 0.5 inches per hour are possible at times through 8 a.m. this morning which could impact visibility.”
The potential for meaningful travel disruptions is a major concern. “roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous,” the NWS stated. “Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the Tuesday morning commute and early Christmas Eve travel.” The agency urged drivers to “Slow down and use caution while traveling.”
Driving through winter: Expert tips from the weather service for a safe journey
Winter weather poses significant risks to drivers.The National Safety council reports over 6,000 weather-related vehicle fatalities and over 480,000 injuries annually. Driving in snow or freezing rain requires extra caution. Even in near-freezing temperatures, the potential for icy conditions necessitates slower speeds and increased vigilance. Falling tree branches and power lines are also a concern. If possible, avoid driving altogether during severe winter storms. If travel is unavoidable, choose routes with fewer trees and power lines. Never approach a downed power line; call 911 instantly.
Share your travel plans: When traveling in hazardous winter weather, always inform family or friends of your destination, route, and estimated arrival time.This simple precaution can be crucial in case of emergencies.
For the latest road conditions in New York, call 511.
Conquering Winter Roads: A Guide to Safe Driving in the U.S.
Winter’s icy grip can transform even familiar roads into treacherous landscapes. With nearly half a million crashes and over 2,000 fatalities linked to winter weather each year, according to AAA Foundation for traffic Safety research [3], preparedness is paramount. This guide provides essential tips to help you navigate winter driving safely across the United States.
Before You Hit the Road: readiness is Key
Before embarking on any winter journey, ensure your vehicle is properly equipped. A full gas tank is crucial, as is a well-stocked emergency kit. This should include a windshield scraper, jumper cables, a small shovel, a flashlight, a fully charged cell phone, a warm blanket, extra layers of warm clothing, drinking water, and high-calorie, non-perishable snacks.
Familiarize yourself with your vehicle’s safety features, such as anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control, by consulting your owner’s manual [2]. If renting a car,take time to understand its controls before driving off the lot.
Driving in snowy or icy conditions requires extra caution. maintain a safe following distance, increase your braking distance significantly, and avoid sudden maneuvers. Accelerate and decelerate slowly and smoothly.
Be mindful of snow plows. Give them plenty of room to operate and only overtake when you have a clear and safe view of the road ahead.
Emergency Preparedness: What to Do if You Get Stranded
Despite careful planning, unexpected situations can arise. If you become stranded, remain calm. Immediately notify someone of your location and situation. Resist the urge to walk for help; stay with your vehicle. Make your vehicle more visible by turning on your dome light and hazard lights. Consider attaching a brightly colored cloth to your antenna or mirror to signal for assistance.
Staying Informed: Checking Road Conditions
Before setting out, always check current road conditions and weather forecasts. Numerous resources, including state department of Transportation websites and weather apps, provide real-time updates on road closures and hazardous conditions. Making informed decisions based on up-to-date information is crucial for a safe journey.
Remember, approximately 46% of weather-related crashes occur during winter months [1]. By following these tips and prioritizing safety, you can significantly reduce your risk and enjoy a smoother, safer winter driving experience.
A winter storm warning has just been issued across upstate New York, leaving drivers bracing for hazardous road conditions just before Christmas Eve. To help navigate the potential dangers of this winter blast, we spoke with David Anderson, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service.
WTN Senior Editor: David, thanks for joining us. We’re facing a meaningful winter storm in Upstate New York.Can you give our readers an overview of what to expect?
David Anderson: You’re welcome. Its definitely a potent storm moving through the region. Expect snowfall accumulations of 1 to 3 inches, with the heaviest bursts falling before 8 a.m. This means slick roads, particularly bridges and overpasses, making for a potentially dangerous morning commute and travel disruptions throughout the day.
WTN Senior Editor: What are some of the biggest concerns you see from a meteorologist’s perspective, especially with the holiday season upon us?
David Anderson: Visibility is a key concern. Those periods of moderate snowfall can significantly reduce visibility, making it harder to judge distances and react to sudden changes on the road. add to that the already slick conditions and we have a recipe for potential accidents. Travelers should allow extra time, slow down considerably, and use caution.
WTN Senior Editor: What are your top tips for staying safe during this storm?
David Anderson: First and foremost is preparedness:
Check road conditions: Before heading out,consult resources like 511,local news websites,or weather apps for the latest updates
Fully charged car: Ensure your car has a full tank of gas and your phone is fully charged
Emergency Kit: Always keep an emergency kit in your vehicle,including a flashlight,jumper cables,a blanket,food,and water.
Drive defensively: Increase following distance, anticipate sudden stops, and avoid sudden maneuvers
* Know your limitations: If it feels unsafe, don’t drive. Delay non-essential travel until conditions improve.
WTN Senior Editor: David, thank you for these invaluable tips. This information will certainly help WTN readers stay safe during this storm. Stay warm!
David Anderson: You’re welcome, and drive safely!
