NY weather update: Prepare for snow showers in New York until Wednesday evening

An updated report from the National Weather Service was issued on Wednesday at 4:57 p.m. for snow showers until 8 p.m. for Oneida, Madison, Cortland, Chenango, Otsego, Tioga, Broome and Delaware counties.

“Additional scattered snow showers will move into the region during the afternoon rush hour. These snow showers will reduce visibilities and result in quick accumulations of snowfall during into the evening hours. Locations potentially impacted include the Northern Tier of Pennsylvania northward into Central New York including the Binghamton area. With falling temperatures slick and snow covered roads are possible along with black ice. Allow extra time to reach to your destination if you encounter snow showers,” states the weather service.

Rainy day rules: How to stay safe in heavy precipitation

Rain can turn roads into hazards. Stay informed and follow these tips from the weather service to ensure safety during heavy rainfall:

Beware of swollen waterways:

• Do not play in or around culverts or drainage ditches as swiftly moving water that occurs during heavy rain can sweep you away.

Maintain safe driving distances:

• Use the two-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you and allow an extra two seconds in heavy rain.

Slow down and stay cautious:

• If it is raining and the roads are wet, slow down. Take your foot off the accelerator and let your speed drop gradually. Never use the brakes suddenly because this may cause the car to skid.

Choose your lane wisely:

• Stay toward the middle lanes – water tends to pool in the outside lanes.

Visibility matters:

• Turn on your headlights.
• Be careful of other vehicles to the rear and in blind spot areas as they are especially difficult to see through rain-spattered windows.

Watch out for slippery roads:

• Be extra careful during the first half hour after rain begins. Grime and oil on the road surface mix with water to make the road slippery.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

• Don’t follow large trucks or buses too…