Archive for December 28th, 2011

28 Dec

Be Warned: Hazardous Roads Throughout Region

Posted by Julia Carlisle in Vermont.

Reported by Gareth Henderson

As the mucky rain and snow mix freezes over in the mountains, local and state officials are warning  residents and visitors  to travel with caution, especially in higher elevations, over the next 24 to 48 hours.  

Woodstock Police Chief Robbie Blish reports a rollover accident  in Bridgewater earlier today and other slide-offs  in nearby towns.  (When contacted by Woodstock Early Bird, Blish was on scene for  a minor fender-bender in a parking space on Central Street). No major injuries from weather-related accidents were reported in Woodstock or bordering towns, as of 2 p.m.

However, the message is clear, probably stay in if you can or take your time getting where you have to be . Y”all  should use caution when traveling at any point today, since temperatures are expected to plummet into the teens later on turning the muck to slick ice.  As with any type of difficult weather condition, the best way to avoid mishaps on the road is to not travel at all.

Here is an official press release from the Vermont State Police and the Vermont Emergency Management Agency issued at midday:

STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE and VERMONT EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

 PRESS RELEASE

Severe Weather and Road Conditions

Waterbury, VT – 12/28/11– The National Weather Service in Burlington has issued a hazardous weather outlook for most areas in Vermont for Wednesday night into Thursday morning. Snow accumulations of 2 – 5 inches are expected by late this evening across central and northern Vermont. Falling temperatures throughout the day will cause wet and snow covered roads to freeze and create difficult travel conditions.

Interstate 89 Northbound, along with other central and northern Vermont roadways, are already experiencing hazardous conditions. Several accidents have been reported across the state; closing Interstate 89 northbound between exit 10 in Waterbury through Bolton Flats before exit in Richmond. The Vermont Department of Public Safety urges Vermonters to use caution and use alternate routes as emergency crews offer assistance to motorists and clear the roadway.

When driving:

  • Check road and weather conditions before leaving your home.
  • Avoid traveling unless necessary and always allow yourself extra time to get to your destination.
  • Make sure your vehicle is in good mechanical condition with snow tires and winter windshield wiper blades.
  • Watch for and expect changing road conditions, black ice, blowing snow, high winds or whiteout conditions can appear when you least expect them to
  • The single most important rule is to drive at a speed that matches the prevailing visibility, traffic and road conditions. The posted speed limits are for dry, clear conditions only
  • Be sure to leave yourself plenty of extra room, extend the following distance from other vehicles ahead.
  • If your car doesn’t make it to your destination, pull as far off the road as possible, to minimize any further traffic hazards, and stay in the car. Make sure your exhaust pipe is not blocked by snow; if it is turn off your car.
  • Carry a cell phone and use 911 in case of an emergency.

The Vermont State Police and Vermont Emergency Management appreciate everyone’s patience during these challenging weather events

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