NYC EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ISSUES TRAVEL ADVISORY FOR MONDAY MORNING COMMUTE

Wintry mix of light snow, sleet, freezing rain and rain may affect the area late Sunday through Monday morning

February 17, 2019— The New York City Emergency Management Department today issued a travel advisory for overnight Sunday through Monday morning. According to the latest National Weather Service (NWS) forecast, light snow may begin Sunday evening, transitioning to a wintry mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain around midnight. By early Monday morning, the wintry mix will transition to rain. A light drizzle will continue through the morning commute, ending by noon. A total of 1 to 2 inches of snow accumulation is forecast, and a trace of ice is possible. New York City Emergency Management advises New Yorkers to exercise caution when driving, biking, or walking as roads may become slippery. Commuters are advised to allow for extra travel time and use public transportation wherever possible.

 Safety Tips  

• Small accumulations of ice can be extremely dangerous to motorists and pedestrians. Bridges and overpasses are particularly dangerous because they freeze before other surfaces.
• If you drive, use extra caution. Vehicles take longer to stop on snow and ice than on dry pavement.
• Four-wheel drive vehicles may make it easier to drive on snow-covered roads, but they stop less quickly than other vehicles.
• Use major streets or highways for travel whenever possible.
• Know your vehicle’s braking system. Vehicles with anti-lock brakes require a different braking technique than vehicles without anti-lock brakes in snowy conditions.
• If you are driving and begin to skid, ease your foot off the gas and steer in the direction you want the front of the car to go. Straighten the wheel when the car moves in the desired direction. If you have an anti-lock braking system (ABS), apply steady pressure to the brake pedal. Never pump the brakes on an ABS equipped vehicle.
• Pedestrians should exercise caution and avoid slippery surfaces; some ice may not be visible. Wear sturdy boots that provide traction to reduce slipping. Use handrails when using stairs. Seniors should take extra care outdoors to avoid slips and falls.

For updates, follow @NotifyNYC or @NYCEMERGENCYMGT on Twitter or visit NYC.gov/severeweather

MEDIA CONTACT: Omar Bourne (718) 422-4888

STAY CONNECTED: Twitter: @NotifyNYC (emergency notifications) @nycemergencymgt (emergency preparedness info) Facebook: /NYCemergencymanagement