Winter Storm Possible For Christmas
Weather forecasters are closely monitoring a winter storm system as it begins to blanket parts of the northwest with snow.
According to National Weather Service meteorologist Courtney Oberfell in Syracuse, the system that is expected to affect the midwest has not reached landfall yet. When it reaches the shores of Texas and moves across the plains later this week, Oberfell says forecasters will have a better idea of what we can expect for local snowfall amounts.
“Right now it’s looking like western Illinois up to central Wisconsin will see the heaviest snow amounts,” Oberfell says, noting areas of Wisconsin have already issued winter storm watches. “We suggest keeping an eye on holiday travel plans because we will be seeing strong winds with this system so any snow we do get will be blowing.”
For now, Oberfell is forecasting colder temperatures to move in with the winter storm system late in the day Thursday and into Friday which will result in lake effect snow.
The Weather Channel has posted its latest “official White Christmas forecast” showing the possibility of snow for northern Indiana.
And, as winter weather approaches, the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department is again providing motorists with tips for safe driving.
During the cold months of winter, driving conditions can change quickly depending on the weather. To help citizens prepare for another winter driving season, Sheriff Rocky Goshert offers the following safety tips.
Be prepared:
- Before traveling, check the forecast and let someone now your travel route.
- Keep your gas tank at least half full.
- Carry a winter driving kit which should include: blankets, flashlight, a brightly colored cloth, sand (or cat litter), shovel, non-perishable high calorie food, a first aid kit and jumper cables.
Drive according to road conditions:
- Allow extra time to get to your destination.
- Clear all windows of ice and snow and remove snow from hood, roof and lights.
- Beware of bridges, underpasses, shaded areas and intersections where ice is slow to melt.
- Slow down to increase traction.
- Avoid abrupt stops and starts. Slow down gradually and keep wheels turning to avoid loosing traction.
- Use low beam headlights to decrease glare from ice.
Should you become stranded:
- Don’t leave your vehicle. It’s the best protection you have.
- Tie a brightly colored cloth to your antenna.
- Roll down your window a small amount.
- Keep the exhaust pipe free of blockage to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Don’t panic. An idling car uses only one gallon of gas per hour.
For Indiana road conditions call 1-800-261-7623. For emergency situations, call 9-1-1 for the Kosciusko County Dispatch Center.