After a week of preparations, the Department Of Transportation is confident they're ready for the BIG weekend Winter Storm.

Jim Piccola, Public Information Officer for Department of Transportation in Region 2, spoke with Cindy about the Winter Storm we're expecting this weekend in CNY. When asked about the impending travel conditions Piccola said:

Since early in the week, NYSDOT has been preparing our response for the approaching storm. The current forecast is predicting heavy and blowing snow beginning Saturday and ending late Sunday evening. We are ready with 100 percent of our snow and ice fleet as well as our dedicated operators. Our Mohawk Valley Operations center is operating 24/7 and will continuously monitor and report on road conditions through the NY 511 System.

If you must travel during a Winter Storm, remember Snow Plows can weigh up to 30 tons when fully loaded with salt so stopping in hazardous conditions can be difficult. Snow Plow Drivers are highly trained professionals operating airbrake equipment designed to stop efficiently. Generally, plows travel at a speed of 30 to 35 MPH when in operation.

If you find yourself driving behind a Snow Plow while it's clearing and salting the roads, remember, if you can't see their side mirrors then they can't see you. For those who try to pass snow plows, YOU need to remember, the road conditions in front of the plow are not going to be as good as behind it. Just take your time and don't be in a hurry during weather events like this.

During the Winter, maintenance locations in CNY are staffed 24/7, including holidays.

Winter Weather Preparation:

Keep your cell phone charged and make sure you know where your backup power supply is.
Make sure all your flashlights have fresh batteries.
Fill your gas tank. You can use your car to keep warm and recharge devices.
Have some food available that you don’t need to cook.
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