The National Weather Service issued a winter storm watch at 3:03 a.m. on Saturday valid from Tuesday midnight until Wednesday midnight. The watch is for Upper Lafourche, Upper St. Bernard, Upper Terrebonne, Lower St. Bernard, Northern Tangipahoa, Southeast St. Tammany, Western Orleans, Eastern Orleans, Northern St. Tammany, Southwestern St. Tammany, Central Tangipahoa, Lower Tangipahoa, Northern Livingston, Southern Livingston, Western Ascension, Eastern Ascension, Upper Jefferson, Lower Jefferson, Upper Plaquemines, Central Plaquemines, Northern Hancock, Northern Harrison, Northern Jackson, Southern Hancock, Southern Harrison and Southern Jackson as well as Pointe Coupee, West Feliciana, East Feliciana, St. Helena, Washington, Iberville, West Baton Rouge, East Baton Rouge, Assumption, St. James, St. John The Baptist, St. Charles, Wilkinson, Amite, Pike, Walthall and Pearl River counties.

“Heavy snowfall possible over the northern half of the area and heavy mixed precipitation possible over the southern half of the area. Total snow accumulations between 4 and 8 inches along and north of the Interstate 10/12 corridor and 2 to 6 inches south of this line. Ice accumulations less than 1/4 inch north and around a 1/4 inch south possible,” says the NWS. “Hazardous driving conditions may last into or through Wednesday as well since all of the wintry precipitation that falls Tuesday may not melt through the day Wednesday. If this begins to look likely, winter weather headlines could be extended into or through Wednesday.”

“Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous. Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the Tuesday morning and evening commutes,” explains the NWS. “Monitor the latest forecasts for updates on this situation. Persons should consider delaying all travel. If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution. Consider taking a winter storm kit along with you, including such items as booster cables, flashlight, blankets and extra clothing. Also take water, a first aid kit, and anything else that would help you survive in case you become stranded.”

Winter driving guide: Tips from the NWS for safe and sound travels

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 NWS:

Share your travel plans:

When traveling out of town in hazardous winter weather, inform your family or friends of your destination, planned route, and estimated time of arrival.

Prepare your vehicle:

Ensure your gas tank is full and equip your vehicle with essential winter supplies, including a windshield scraper, jumper cables, a small shovel, flashlight, cell phone, blanket, extra warm clothing, drinking water, and high-calorie non-perishable food.

Stay calm when stranded:

If you become stranded, remain composed. Inform someone about your situation and location. Avoid attempting to walk to safety. Indicate that you need assistance by attaching a cloth to your car’s antenna or mirror, and make your vehicle more visible by using the dome light and flashers

Be mindful of snow plows:

Keep an eye out for snow plows and allow them ample room to pass. Only overtake a plow when you have a clear view of the road ahead.

Check road conditions:

Before embarking on your journey, check the latest road conditions to make informed travel decisions.

These winter driving tips from the NWS are your key to a safer journey on snow-covered roads. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure your well-being during challenging winter weather.

Source: The National Weather Service