At 12:47 p.m. Saturday, the National Weather Service issued a Winter Weather Advisory in effect from 5 p.m. until 10 a.m. Sunday for Northern Herkimer, Northern Saratoga, Northern Warren, Northern Fulton and Southeast Warren, as well as Hamilton County.
“Mixed precipitation is expected. Total snow and sleet accumulations up to two inches and ice accumulations around two-tenths of an inch,” the weather service said. “This will be a multi-precipitation event. For areas of eastern New York, precipitation is likely to start as snow or sleet before quickly transitioning to sleet and/or freezing rain. In areas of western New England, precipitation appears to start as rain before surface temperatures cool and change to freezing rain. While there is still some uncertainty in the exact timing of the precipitation, there is a high degree of certainty that the type of precipitation will prevail over various types of precipitation. types will cause difficult to dangerous travel conditions.”
“Plan on slippery roads,” the weather service explains. “Slow down and use caution when traveling. Be prepared for slippery roads. Slow down and use caution when driving. If you are going outside, watch your first few steps on stairs, sidewalks, and driveways. These surfaces can be icy and slippery, increasing the risk of falls and injuries. Be prepared for possible power outages.”
Winter Driving Guide: Tips from the Weather Service for safe and healthy travel
Winter icy grip often turns treacherous roads, leading to more than 6,000 weather-related vehicle deaths and more than 480,000 injuries each year. When you find yourself on snowy or freezing rain-covered roads, your top priority should be safety. Slow down and be careful. In near-freezing temperatures, it’s wise to take icy patches on the road and adjust your driving accordingly. Watch out for ice accumulating on power lines and tree branches as they can break and fall. If possible, avoid driving in these conditions altogether. But if you must venture out, choose routes with fewer trees and power lines, and never touch downed power lines. If you come across one, call 911 immediately. Here are more winter driving tips from the weather service:
Share your travel plans:
When traveling out of town in dangerous winter weather, inform your family or friends of your destination, planned 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 current road conditions so you can make informed travel decisions.
These winter driving tips from the weather service are your key to safer driving on snowy roads. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure your comfort during the harsh winter weather.
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