A major storm system is set to bring “potentially catastrophic” winter weather across the southern U.S. this weekend, bringing snow, freezing rain and ice pellets to a substantial swath of the country.
It could be the “storm that defines the entire winter,” according to some meteorologists.
Overall, nearly 30 states could feel the effects from New Mexico all the way to New York starting Friday.
The National Weather Service warns that not only will this be a significant storm event but that there will be dangerously cold temperatures both before and after it passes — and in places that aren’t accustomed to such frigid conditions.
But there’s still “a lot of uncertainty,” David Nadler, a warning co-ordination meteorologist with the NWS in Peachtree City, Ga., said in a special briefing Wednesday afternoon.
If you’re not used to winter driving conditions, keep your speed to about half of the posted speed limit, AND allow about double the normal distance for any braking you have to do. Give yourself a little over twice the normal amount of time it’d take you to drive somewhere.
This is generous, and will generally keep you safe on the road even if you’re unaccustomed to the conditions. Ice can still cause (sometimes unavoidable) problems even with these extra allowances, but if you’re going slowly and giving the extra distance, any accidents will be at low speed and very minor.
And remember that breaking completely negates your steering wheel when on ice. As does accelerating. You’re more likely to get control of your vehicle if you don’t break or accelerate while you’re slipping on ice.
And consider not driving at all if it isn’t important- especially if you don’t have all-weather tires
Or 4WD
That is a common misconception. 4WD certainly helps you start moving and keep moving in snow. All that does is prevent you from getting stuck. It does absolutely nothing to help you stop moving, which is what’s going to cause an accident.
COMBINED with winter tires, 4WD is great.
WITHOUT winter tires, you’d be better off and safer being stuck. 4WD does not make you safe to drive and maneuver in snow and icy conditions. You still need proper tires.