ST. LAWRENCE COUNTY, N.Y. — The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an updated winter weather advisory for parts of the North Country, warning residents to prepare for snow, strong winds, and hazardous travel conditions from Thursday morning through early Friday.
Advisory Details
The advisory, released at 11:54 p.m. Wednesday, is in effect from 1 a.m. Thursday until 7 a.m. Friday and covers Southeastern St. Lawrence, Southern Franklin, and Western Clinton counties.
Forecasters expect snow accumulations of 2 to 7 inches, with higher totals possible in mountain areas. Winds are also expected to gust up to 40 mph, creating areas of blowing and drifting snow that could drastically reduce visibility.
“The heaviest snow is expected Thursday evening and Thursday night,” the NWS said. “Travel could be very difficult. Areas of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The hazardous conditions will impact the Thursday morning and evening commutes.”
Travel and Safety Concerns
The mix of heavy snow and gusty winds will make for challenging driving conditions, particularly during peak commute hours. Motorists are urged to slow down, allow extra travel time, and use caution on rural and mountain roads.
The weather service warns that icy patches may form as temperatures hover near freezing, and blowing snow could conceal lane markings or obstacles.
Winter Driving Safety Tips
To help drivers stay safe, the National Weather Service shared the following winter driving recommendations:
- Plan ahead: Inform family or friends of your route and expected arrival time.
- Prepare your vehicle: Keep a full gas tank and carry essentials such as a scraper, jumper cables, flashlight, blanket, and food.
- Avoid unnecessary travel: If you must drive, proceed slowly and keep extra distance between vehicles.
- Stay with your vehicle if stranded, and use hazard lights or a visible marker to signal for help.
- Give snow plows plenty of space and avoid passing until you can clearly see the road ahead.
Forecast Outlook
Snowfall will taper off by early Friday morning as the storm system moves east, but cold temperatures and lingering gusts will keep roads slick into the day. Conditions are expected to gradually improve by midday Friday as crews work to clear main routes.
Residents are encouraged to check road conditions before traveling and stay alert for school delays or closures across the North Country.
Stay tuned to HonkNews.com for continued updates, forecast changes, and travel advisories related to the North Country winter weather system.