The National Weather Service issued an updated winter weather advisory on Sunday at 10 p.m. This advisory is in effect until Monday at 7 a.m. It covers various counties, including Northern Clinton, Northern Centre, Southern Centre, Northern Lycoming, Southern Clinton, and Southern Lycoming. Additionally, Warren, McKean, Potter, Elk, Cameron, Clearfield, Cambria, Blair, Somerset, Tioga, and Sullivan counties are also included in the advisory.
The weather service states to anticipate, “Patchy freezing drizzle. A light glaze of additional ice accumulation is possible.”
“Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the Monday morning commute,” explains the weather service. “Be prepared for slippery roads. Slow down and use caution while driving. If you are going outside, watch your first few steps taken on stairs, sidewalks, and driveways. These surfaces could be icy and slippery, increasing your risk of a fall and injury.”
Winter driving essentials: Recommendations from the weather service for safe journeys
Winter weather can create dangerous driving conditions, resulting in more than 6,000 weather-related vehicle fatalities and over 480,000 injuries annually. When driving in snowy or icy conditions, it is crucial to prioritize safety by reducing your speed. It is safest to assume that roadways are icy in near-freezing temperatures and adjust your driving accordingly. Stay alert for ice accumulation on power lines or tree branches, as these can pose hazards if they snap or fall. If possible, avoid driving in such conditions. If you must go out, choose routes with fewer trees and power lines. Remember to never touch a downed power line and immediately call 911 if you encounter one. Here are some additional tips for driving in winter weather.
Share your travel plans with others.
When you’re traveling out of town during dangerous winter conditions, it’s important to let your family or friends know where you’re going, the route you’re planning to take, and when you expect to arrive. This way, they can keep track of your progress and ensure your safety.
Prepare Your Vehicle:
Ensure your gas tank and stock your vehicle with winter essentials, including a windshield scraper, jumper cables, a small shovel, a flashlight, a mobile phone, a blanket, extra warm clothes, drinking water, and high-calorie non-perishable food.
Stay calm when stranded:
If you become stranded, be calm. Inform someone of your condition and whereabouts. Avoid trying to walk to safety. Attach a cloth to your car’s antenna or mirror to indicate that you need assistance. Make your vehicle more visible by using the dome light and flashers.
Be mindful of snow plows:
Keep an eye out for snowplows and give them plenty of room to pass. Only pass a plow if you have a clear view of the road ahead.
Check road conditions:
Before beginning on your journey, check the most recent road conditions to make educated travel selections.
With these useful winter driving recommendations from the weather service, you can stay safe on winter roads and lower your chance of an accident during difficult weather conditions.
