The National Weather Service issued an updated winter storm watch for Crawford County on Tuesday at 2:23 p.m., which is in effect from Wednesday at 4 p.m. to Friday at 4 a.m.
“Snow with a strong lake effect is possible. Where snow bands continue, there may be localized accumulations of up to 12 inches of snow, with total accumulations above 8 inches. It is likely that winds of up to 35 mph will gust, the weather agency says. “On Wednesday night, an Arctic front is expected to move across the area, bringing with it a band of heavy snow. Conditions will rapidly deteriorate, with visibility of less than 1/4 mile, wind gusts of up to 45 mph, and a swift inch or two of snow. Before lake effect snow bands arrive for the remainder of the event, travel throughout the area may soon become challenging. Localized vision decreases and flying snow are possible outcomes of strong wind gusts up to 45 mph. The region’s heavy snowpack from the ongoing lake effect event might drift and create dangerous driving conditions.
Snowfall and blowing may cause visibility to decrease below 1/4 mile. The weather agency warns that travel could be extremely challenging. “If you have to go, make sure your car has food, drink, and an additional flashlight in case of an emergency. The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation strongly advise drivers to observe all traffic laws and postpone needless travel. People ought to think about postponing all of their travel. Use considerable caution when driving if you must travel. Think about packing a snow storm kit that includes supplies like blankets, additional clothing, a shovel, flashlight, booster cables, tire chains, and other necessities. Bring water, a first aid kit, and anything else you might need to survive if you are stuck. The weather during lake effect snow might range from dry conditions a few miles distant to bands of heavy snow locally. Visibilities can differ significantly as well. Be ready for sudden changes in road conditions, visibility, and weather. For updates on this issue, keep an eye on the most recent projections.
Mastering winter roads: Guidance from the weather service for safe winter travel
Driving in the winter can be dangerous, resulting in more than 480,000 injuries and 6,000 vehicle fatalities annually. Prioritize safety by slowing down when driving in snow or freezing rain. When temperatures are close to freezing, it’s best to assume that there is ice on the roads and modify your driving appropriately. Watch out for ice buildup on tree branches or power wires as this can cause snapping and falling hazards. Steer clear of driving in such conditions if at all feasible. Choose paths with fewer trees and electricity lines if you must go outside. Never touch a downed electrical line, and if you see one, call 911 right once. The weather service has provided the following extra winter driving advice:
Tell us about your travel itinerary:
Tell your family or friends where you’re going, the route you’re taking, and when you expect to arrive when you’re leaving town in dangerous winter conditions.
Get your car ready:
A windshield scraper, jumper cables, a small shovel, flashlight, mobile phone, blanket, extra warm clothes, drinking water, and high-calorie non-perishable food are all necessary wintertime items for your car. Make sure your petrol tank is full.
Remain composed when stranded:
Remain calm if you end up trapped. Tell someone where you are and what’s going on. Avoid trying to get to safety by foot. To indicate that you need help, fasten a piece of fabric to the antenna or mirror of your vehicle. Use the dome light and flashers to increase the visibility of your car.
Watch out for snow plows:
Watch for snow plows and give them plenty of space to go by. You should only pass a plow when you can see the road well ahead.
Examine the state of the roads:
To make wise travel choices, check the state of the roads before setting out on your trip.
The weather service’s winter driving advice is essential for a safer trip on snow-covered roads. You may greatly lower your chance of accidents and protect your health during the harsh winter months by adhering to these rules.
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