Motorists Encouraged to Use Caution During Possible Morning Snowstorm

Dec 4, 2024

(Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2024) – In light of the Winter Weather Advisory issued for our area, motorists are encouraged to use caution during the Thursday morning and evening commutes when snow accumulations and high winds may create difficult driving conditions.

“The first significant snow fall of the year always carries the risk that our winter driving skills might be a little rusty, and the possibility for snow covered roads and limited visibility during the commutes calls for us to use extra caution,” said Mayor Malik D. Evans. “Please be patient and allow extra time, slow down, and leave room to stop on slippery roads. Help us all get to where we need to go safely.”

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for Rochester from 10 p.m. Wednesday through 4 a.m. Friday, with snow accumulations forecasted to be 3 to 5 inches with wind gusts as high as 45 miles per hour. Travel could be difficult with blowing snow causing reduced visibility for the morning and evening commutes, according to the Weather Service.

The City deploys snowplows on residential streets when 3 inches of new snow have fallen and sidewalks are plowed when 4 inches of snow accumulate. During snowfall, main streets (arterials) are continually plowed. Arterials and certain roadways (schools, bus routes, bridges, hills, etc.) are treated with salt.

Motorists and property owners are also advised to:

Watch for pedestrians who may be walking in the streets and children who may be getting on or off school buses;
Observe alternate side parking regulations on city roads to allow clear passage for snowplows;
Monitor PlowTrax, the City’s snowplow tracker application, to check plowing progress in real time. For more visit: www.cityofrochester.gov/plowtrax;
Monitor the news for travel advisories, closures, cancellations and refuse delays;
Remove snow and ice from sidewalks in front of their property;
Keep fire hydrants clear.