It’s baaacckk…
The National Weather Service of State College has announced a winter weather advisory for McKean and Elk counties, including the cities of Bradford, St. Marys and Ridgway.
The advisory went into effect at10 p.m. Monday, and is to last until 6 p.m. on Wednesday with expected lake effect snow accumulations. Total snow accumulations of three to five inches, with localized amounts up to eight inches, are expected. Some parts of Western New York could see up to 20 inches of snow between Monday and Wednesday night.
“We are looking at a multi-day lake effect snow event with some of the snow showers being heavy, but it is too early (on Monday evening) still to tell where the heavier snow bursts may occur. We are expecting three to five inches of snow to fall in the Bradford area with the possibility of up to eight inches falling in some areas where the heavier snow bursts end up falling,” said Michael Colbert, forecaster from the State College National Weather Service station.
Heavy snow and strong wind gusts forecasted in northwest Pennsylvania and along the Allegheny ridges in southwestern Pennsylvania have the potential to cause dangerous travel conditions through Wednesday. Gov. Tom Wolf on Monday advised that state agencies are prepared and providing preparation tips for residents and travelers.
The National Weather Service predicts the strongest winds in Western New York. They caution that strong winds “can cause minor property damage without extra precautions and unsecured outdoor items may be blown around; such as, Christmas decorations, patio furniture and trash cans.”
Motorists traveling today and Wednesday should use caution, planning for slippery road conditions and reduced visibilities at times, including during the morning commutes. Motorists are advised to avoid traveling during winter storms if possible, but motorists who must be on the road are urged to use caution while driving.
“As always, safety is first,” Wolf said.
Motorists are reminded that roadways will not be free of snow while precipitation is falling. With freezing temperatures, motorists are reminded that roads that look wet may be icy and extra caution is needed when approaching bridges and highway ramps where ice can form without warning. Motorists should leave plenty of space – six car lengths – when following a truck that is plowing or spreading winter materials.
“We are in close contact with county emergency management teams to ensure each has what it needs to help locally,” said Rick Flinn, director of the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA). “The teams in the northwest are well-versed in winter weather and lake-effect snow and are prepared for this storm to minimize travel delays and maximize safety for all residents and travelers.”
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is prepared for the expected winter weather, with plow trucks and other equipment ready. Salt, anti-skid and other materials are in good supply. Roads will be monitored as the weather is expected to change from rain to snow Monday night. Crews will be working around the clock if necessary to keep roads safe and passable. However, squalls happen suddenly and can severely limit visibility.
“Our teams are ready for the storm, but motorists are critical partners in our mission in the winter,” PennDOT Secretary Leslie S. Richards said. “We urge drivers to delay unnecessary travel in winter weather, and if you must travel, please slow down and give plow operators plenty of room.”
PennDOT reminds motorists to pack an emergency kit for their vehicles. A basic kit should include non-perishable food, water, blanket, small shovel and warm clothes. When preparing an emergency kit, motorists should consider special needs of passengers such as baby food, pet supplies or medications and pack accordingly.
PEMA, PennDOT, and the Pennsylvania State Police offer these winter weather driving tips:
Monitor weather forecasts and www.511PA.com, PennDOT’s 24-hour, seven days-a-week travel information center.
Slow down while driving when snow is falling and always wear a seat belt. Leave plenty of distance between you and the vehicles you are following.
Stay alert, keep looking as far ahead as possible and be patient. Reduce in-vehicle distractions in order to give driving your full attention.
Use your vehicle’s defroster and wipers. Keep windows and mirrors free of snow and ice.
During squalls or whiteouts, do not stop on the roadway. Come to a complete stop only when you can safely get as far off the road as possible or when there is a safe area to do so.
After you are stopped safely off the roadway, turn on your four-way flashers and stay with your vehicle.
