At 4:22 p.m. on Monday, the National Weather Service issued a winter storm warning in effect until Wednesday at 4 p.m. for Erie and Genesee counties.
The weather service adds to expect, “Heavy lake effect snow. Additional snow accumulations 10 to 18 inches in the most persistent bands. Winds gusting as high as 50 mph will produce significant blowing and drifting snow and near whiteouts at times. Snowfall rates may reach 2 to 3 inches per hour at times in the strongest lake effect snow bands.”
“Whiteout conditions are expected and will make travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening. Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous. Travel will be very difficult. The hazardous conditions will impact the Monday evening and Tuesday morning commutes. Gusty winds will down tree branches and cause isolated power outages,” explains the weather service. “Heavy lake effect snow will create dangerous travel conditions.”
Staying safe on winter roads: Winter driving tips from the weather service
Winter’s icy grip often turns roads treacherous, leading to over 6,000 weather-related vehicle fatalities and more than 480,000 injuries each year. When you find yourself on snowy or freezing rain-slicked roads, your top priority should be safety. Slow down and exercise caution. In temperatures near freezing, it’s prudent to assume icy patches on the road and adjust your driving accordingly. Be on alert for ice accumulating on power lines and tree branches, as they may 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 a downed power line. If you encounter one, dial 911 immediately. Here are additional winter driving tips from the weather service:
Share your travel plans:
When venturing out of town in hazardous winter weather, be sure to inform family or friends of your destination, your intended route, and your estimated arrival time.
Prepare your vehicle:
Ensure your gas tank is full and equip your vehicle with essential winter supplies, including a windshield scraper, jumper cables, a small shovel, flashlight, cell phone, blanket, extra warm clothing, drinking water, and high-calorie non-perishable food.
Stay calm when stranded:
If you become stranded, stay composed. Notify someone about your situation and location. Avoid attempting to walk to safety. Attach a cloth to your car’s antenna or mirror to signal that you require assistance. Make your vehicle more visible by using the dome light and flashers.
Be mindful of snow plows:
Keep an eye out for snow plows and allow them ample room to pass. Only overtake a plow when you have a clear view of the road ahead.
Check road conditions:
Before embarking on your journey, verify the current road conditions to make informed travel decisions.
These winter driving tips from the weather service are your key to a safer journey on snow-covered roads. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure your well-being during challenging winter weather.