First Winter Weather Advisory of 2007

Winter Weather Advisory:

Issued at: 10:16 PM EST 1/14/07, expires at: 6:00 AM EST 1/15/07
Winter weather advisory remains in effect until 10:00 am est Monday.

Freezing rain and sleet will overspread the Connecticut valley late tonight, and should reach northeast Connecticut, northwest Rhode island and the southwest suburbs of Boston before daybreak. It will slowly change to rain Monday morning as temperatures climb above freezing. This will produce around one tenth of an inch of icing.

Those with travel plans should be aware of the potential for icy spots on roadways tonight and Monday morning, especially on bridges and overpasses where slippery spots can easily develop. Stay tuned to NOAA all hazards weather radio or your local media for more information on this winter weather situation.


Triple AAA Winter driving Tips:

If you will be driving in winter conditions, prepare your vehicle for the demands of the weather and brush up on driving techniques that will keep you safely on the go, despite ice and snow.

Perform a thorough check of your electrical system, lights, brakes, exhaust system, heating and cooling system, and windshield wipers. Make any repairs or replacements well before bad weather hits.

As weather grows colder, more people fall victim to carbon monoxide poisoning. Never warm up your vehicle in an enclosed space (such as a garage) or leave your vehicle unattended with the engine running.

Put together an emergency kit for winter driving. Include these items: Cellular phone; Bag of abrasive material (sand, salt or cat litter); Small snow shovel; Snow brush; Traction mats; Flashlight; Window-washing solvent; Ice scraper; Cloth or paper towels; Booster cables; Blanket; Warning flares or triangles; Gloves or mittens.

When driving on the highway after a snowfall: Keep your speed low and headlights on low beam; Do not use cruise control in wet, icy, snowy conditions; Choose the lane that was most recently cleared; Avoid changing lanes to minimize your risk of losing control when driving over built-up snow between lanes; On an icy road, allow the greatest margin of safety by focusing your attention as far ahead as possible (at least 20 to 30 seconds).

For more information on winter driving, visit the Triple AAA website: www.aaa.com