Measurable snow fall arrives

Monday, November 11, 2019
IVY JACOBS photo - Clay County Courthouse

Old Man Winter arrived in the Wabash Valley Monday afternoon, bringing cold temperatures 16 mph winds, and snow.

A Winter Weather Advisory was issued by the National Weather Service in Indianapolis until 8 a.m., Tuesday, Nov. 12.

WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT UNTIL 8 AM EST TUESDAY...

IVY JACOBS photo - The driver's point of view of the roads during Monday evening's snowfall.

WHAT...Snow expected. Total snow accumulations of 1 to 3 inches.

WHERE...Portions of central, south-central, southeast, southwest and west-central Indiana.

WHEN...From 4 PM this afternoon to 8 AM EST Tuesday.

IMPACTS...Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the evening commute.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS...rapidly falling temperatures this evening and overnight may lead to flash freezing conditions with roads remaining icy through Tuesday morning.

These weather conditions will affect driving.

The Indiana State Police have provided some winter driving safety tips, including:

Drive According to Road Conditions

Allow extra time to get where you’re going

Clear all windows of ice and snow

Remove snow from hood, roof, and lights

Slow steady starts to prevent needless spinning of the wheels

The pavement is twice as slippery at 32° as it is at 0°

Beware of bridges, underpasses, overpasses, shaded areas and intersections where ice is slow to melt

Slow down - it increases traction

Avoid abrupt stops and starts – slow down gradually and keep wheels turning to avoid getting stuck

Use low beam headlights to decrease glare from ice

Wet pavement can cause hydroplaning at speeds as low as 35 mph - wheels may lose contact with the pavement causing a skid or spin

Drive Defensively!

Wear your safety belt at all times

Don’t tailgate -- always leave a safety cushion of at least two car lengths per 10 mph you’re traveling

When braking on ice apply gentle but firm pressure without locking brakes

Watch for pedestrians - poor visibility and slippery conditions provide hazardous walkways and crossings

Anticipate others’ actions

To regain control during a skid, release brakes and gently steer the car in the direction of the skid

IVY JACOBS photo - Indiana Department of Transportation snowplows were out Monday evening working to keep the roads from becoming slippery from the winter weather.

Pay attention to snowplows

In the winter, INDOT snowplow drivers are out on the roads to keep them clear of snow and ice and keep you safe. Here’s what you need to know about driving around snowplows:

Distance: Give snowplows room to work. The plows are wide and can cross the centerline or shoulder. Don’t tailgate and try not to pass. If you must pass, take extreme caution and beware of the snow cloud.

Speed: Snowplows travel below the posted speed limit. Be patient. Allow plenty of time to slow down.

Remember, Ice and Snow, Take it Slow.

Vision: A snowplow operator’s field of vision is restricted. You may see them, but they don’t always see you. Keep your distance and watch for sudden stops or turns.

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