HUDSON VALLEY -The New York State Police are advising motorists to be prepared during the upcoming winter storm event in the Hudson Valley. The area is expecting a significant amount of snowfall beginning on Monday, March 13, 2023, and continuing into the morning of March 14, 2023. “If you do not have to travel, please stay off of the roads,” says the troopers. The warning was issued by Troop F which covers Greene, Orange, Rockland, Sullivan, and Ulster Counties.
Weather forecasts are calling for accumulations of up to two feet of snow in the higher elevations of the Hudson Valley with most of the area west of the Hudson receiving between six and 16″, while the area east of the Hudson River could see accumulations of eight to 16″ of snow. The lower area of the Hudson Valley may receive as little as two inches of snow, depending on the track the storm takes.
Troopers will be out checking all major routes of travel to ensure that motorists are as safe as possible and working with local Emergency Operations Centers as needed. Motorists traveling in areas impacted by the snow and ice are asked to leave with extra time to make a slow and careful drive to their destination. Consider the snow accumulation on the roads, the current snowfall rate, the wind, and visibility.
Keep the following tips in mind:
- Get the latest weather forecast before leaving with your local weather apps, and monitor radio or TV stations.
- Always clean your windows and mirrors FULLY of any snow and ice before driving.
- Keep a full tank of gas
- Fluid levels are sufficient (windshield washer fluid, ant-freeze)
- Spare tire is sufficient, and you have the jack and wheel wrench
- Use headlights at all times to increase your visibility to others. Remember, if your windshield wipers are in use due to weather, then your headlights must be on.
- Drive prudently. If the conditions are adverse, you should decrease your speed accordingly.
- Brake early
- Do NOT use cruise control. This decreases your reaction time to apply braking.
- Look out for events farther down the road. Creating more time to react can make a difference.
- Be aware of maintenance vehicles and emergency vehicles. Give them room to work.
- If you do not absolutely have to go out on the roads, then don’t.
