On Friday at 3 a.m. EST the National Weather Service issued an updated winter weather advisory valid from 8 a.m. EST until Saturday 10 a.m. EST for Muskegon, Ottawa, Allegan, Van Buren and Kalamazoo counties.
The weather service says, “Total snow accumulations between 3 and 5 inches with isolated amounts over 6 inches.”
“Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous. Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the Friday evening commute,” adds the weather service. “Slow down and use caution while traveling. During lake effect snow, the weather can vary from bands of locally heavy snow to dry weather just a few miles away. Visibilities can also vary greatly. Be prepared for rapid changes in weather, visibility, and road conditions.”
Staying safe on winter roads: Winter driving tips from the weather service
Winter weather can make driving treacherous, leading to over 6,000 weather-related vehicle fatalities and over 480,000 injuries each year. When traveling during snow or freezing rain, prioritize safety by slowing down. In near-freezing temperatures, it’s safest to assume that icy conditions exist on roadways and adjust your driving accordingly. Be cautious of ice accumulating on power lines or tree branches, which can lead to snapping and falling hazards. If possible, avoid driving in such conditions. If you must venture out, opt for routes with fewer trees and power lines. Never touch a downed power line, and immediately dial 911 if you come across one. Here are additional winter driving tips from the weather service:…