Travel Advisory in Lewis County: Snow and Ice Create Hazardous Roads, Here’s What You Need to Know

The Lewis County Sheriff’s Office has issued a Travel Advisory for the region due to dangerous winter road conditions. The advisory, which was made public on Friday afternoon at 4 p.m., was prompted by snowy and icy roads that have made travel unsafe. The advisory strongly urges drivers to avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary. In addition to the sheriff’s office warning, the National Weather Service (NWS) has also issued a Winter Weather Advisory, further highlighting the severity of the situation and the need for caution.

Overview of the Travel Advisory and Its Impact

The Travel Advisory issued by the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office advises residents and visitors to avoid unnecessary travel. This decision was made due to the icy and snow-covered roadways that have developed over the course of the afternoon. The sheriff’s office made it clear that conditions had worsened enough to warrant this alert for the entire county, which includes both Lowville and the surrounding towns. As a result, motorists are urged to stay off the roads if their travel is not essential.

Although a Travel Advisory does not impose an outright ban, it is a clear indication that conditions have become hazardous enough to cause delays and accidents. The travel advisory serves as a precautionary measure to prevent injuries and traffic disruptions. The snowfall in the area, combined with icy roads, has made driving especially dangerous, prompting the sheriff’s office to issue this alert to help protect both travelers and residents.

Winter Weather Advisory Issued by the National Weather Service

Alongside the sheriff’s office’s travel advisory, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued an official Winter Weather Advisory for Lewis County and the surrounding areas. The advisory warns of hazardous winter precipitation including snow, freezing rain, and sleet, which are likely to create slippery roads and poor visibility. The Winter Weather Advisory is in effect until 7 a.m. on Saturday, with the expectation that roads will remain icy and snow-packed throughout the night.

This advisory indicates that road conditions will be hazardous, and even though the snowfall and ice accumulation may not be severe enough to trigger a Winter Storm Warning, it is still enough to make travel dangerous. As with all weather-related advisories, conditions are subject to change, and it is possible that the status of the advisory may be extended, downgraded, or canceled depending on how the weather evolves.

Geographic Area Affected by the Advisory

The travel advisory and winter weather warning have primarily affected Lewis County, which remains under the travel notice. However, surrounding regions, including Jefferson County, Oswego County, and parts of the North Country in Upstate New York, have also experienced similar weather conditions due to lake-effect snow. These areas, which are located near Lake Ontario, frequently experience heavy snow and icy conditions during the winter months due to this unique weather phenomenon. As a result, travel throughout the North Country has been significantly impacted by the winter storm, and additional advisories are expected in these areas as well.

Why the Travel Advisory Matters

A Travel Advisory is a public notice that warns of hazardous driving conditions. While it does not impose a travel ban, it serves as an important alert to reduce the risk of accidents and ensure the safety of everyone on the roads. The advisory indicates that roads may be:

• Snow-covered and icy
• Covered in black ice, particularly on bridges, overpasses, and untreated surfaces
• Prone to poor visibility due to blowing snow and winter weather
• Subject to sudden changes in road traction, leading to skidding or accidents

These dangerous conditions make it significantly more challenging to drive safely. In particular, black ice and poor visibility increase the likelihood of accidents, especially for drivers who are unprepared for winter driving conditions.

Precautions and Safety Measures During Winter Weather

As winter weather can present serious challenges for drivers and pedestrians alike, it is important to take appropriate precautions to stay safe during these times. The National Weather Service and local authorities have provided a set of guidelines for residents and travelers to follow during a Winter Weather Advisory. Here are the key recommendations:

Before You Travel

• Avoid unnecessary travel. If travel is not essential, it is best to stay off the roads until conditions improve.
• Check road conditions and weather updates before heading out, especially by consulting official sources such as the National Weather Service and local weather stations.
• Inform someone about your travel plans, including your destination and expected arrival time, so that they are aware of your whereabouts in case of an emergency.

If You Must Drive

• Reduce your speed and increase your following distance. This will give you more time to react to any sudden changes in road conditions.
• Use winter tires or all-season tires designed for driving in snow and ice. These tires provide better traction on slippery surfaces.
• Avoid sudden steering or braking, as these actions can cause the vehicle to lose control on icy surfaces.
• Be extra cautious when crossing bridges or driving on roads that are shaded, as these areas are more likely to have ice buildup even if the rest of the road is clear.

Emergency Preparedness

• Carry an emergency kit in your vehicle that includes essential items such as:
  • Blankets and warm clothing
  • Non-perishable food and water
  • A flashlight
  • A first-aid kit
  • A shovel and ice scraper
  • A portable phone charger
• Keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent freezing in cold temperatures and to avoid running out of fuel during delays.

Monitoring Weather Conditions

• Stay updated on changing weather conditions and road closures by checking official sources such as the National Weather Service (NWS), the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office, and local news stations.

What the Advisory Means

Both the Travel Advisory and the Winter Weather Advisory have been issued to help keep the public safe during adverse weather conditions.

• The Travel Advisory is a warning that conditions are unsafe and encourages drivers to limit travel unless necessary. It is not a travel ban but a recommendation to avoid the roads when possible.
• The Winter Weather Advisory indicates that hazardous winter weather is expected and that roads may be slippery and dangerous, even though conditions may not be severe enough to trigger a Winter Storm Warning.

Both advisories are designed to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries by keeping drivers informed and cautious during winter weather.

By staying informed, following safety guidelines, and taking necessary precautions, individuals can protect themselves and others during the ongoing winter storm. It is crucial to remain vigilant and prepared during these hazardous weather conditions.

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