Winter Weather Advisory Issued for South Central PA; Up to 3″ Snow Expected

URGENT UPDATE: A winter weather advisory has just been issued for South Central Pennsylvania, including Fulton, Franklin, Adams, York, and Lancaster counties. The advisory is active from 3 a.m. to 1 p.m. on January 16, 2024, warning residents to prepare for hazardous conditions.

According to the National Weather Service, total snow accumulations could reach between 1 and 3 inches, with the potential for mixed precipitation, including sleet and freezing rain. The weather service cautions that roads, particularly bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and dangerous. This could significantly impact the Tuesday morning commute, making travel treacherous.

“Plan on slippery road conditions and slow down while traveling,” officials warn. They advise motorists to check the latest road conditions by calling 5-1-1 before heading out.

Winter weather poses serious risks, contributing to over 6,000 weather-related fatalities and more than 480,000 injuries annually. With temperatures hovering around freezing, it’s crucial to assume icy conditions may exist on roadways and to adjust driving habits accordingly. Be especially cautious of potential hazards such as ice accumulating on power lines and tree branches, which can lead to snapping and falling dangers.

If you must travel in these conditions, the National Weather Service recommends the following safety tips:

– **Share your travel plans:** Inform family or friends of your destination, route, and estimated arrival time.
– **Prepare your vehicle:** Ensure your gas tank is full and stock your car with essential winter supplies, including a windshield scraper, jumper cables, a small shovel, flashlight, cell phone, blanket, extra warm clothing, drinking water, and high-calorie non-perishable food.
– **Stay calm when stranded:** If you become stuck, remain calm and inform someone about your situation. Avoid attempting to walk to safety. Make your vehicle more visible by using your dome light and flashers.
– **Be mindful of snow plows:** Give snow plows plenty of room and only overtake them when it’s safe to do so.
– **Check road conditions:** Verify current road conditions before your journey to make informed decisions.

As this winter weather unfolds, residents are urged to prioritize safety and remain vigilant on the roads. Stay tuned for further updates as conditions develop throughout the day.