The City of Norwich received an approximate total of 11 inches of snowfall on Monday, January 17, according to the National Weather Service. More snowfall is expected, as well as Arctic winds and below-zero temperatures. (Photo by Sarah Genter)

CHENANGO COUNTY — Chenango County saw significant snowfall over the past 24 hours. The National Weather Service reported the City of Norwich received approximately 11 inches of snow on Monday, January 17.

To stay safe on the snowy roads, City of Norwich Police Department Detective Sergeant Reuben Roach recommends area residents plan some extra time for commutes.

“Give yourself an extra 20 to 30 minutes for travel time, and try to be kind to other drivers who are traveling slower than usual,” he said. “Drive slow and be aware of other drivers. Every year we have an influx of younger drivers who do no have the experience that some of us might have in the snow and ice.”

Drivers should also be cautious of snow plows and other snow removal vehicles while traveling on snowy and icy roads.

“Give the plow plenty of room, and understand that the drivers have a tough job to do, and being patient with them is essential to safe roadways,” said Roach. He added that when around large snow removal vehicles, drivers should “Always drive slow and use extreme caution; the obstruction from the snow banks make it very hard for the drivers to see all things at all times.”

It is also good practice to keep emergency kits in vehicles, containing “a blanket, flashlight with fresh batteries, and if possible, a first aid kit,” to maintain both general safety and safety during winter conditions, according to Roach.

New York State Police Troop “C,” which covers Broome, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware, Otsego, Tompkins, and Tioga counties, reported no major weather related incidents, but responded to several minor accidents and disabled vehicles over the course of Sunday evening and Monday.

The Troop reminded motorists to be prepared for winter weather, and advised residents to “make sure you have a full gas tank, a shovel, and an emergency kit with extra clothes, blankets, and water; give yourself extra time; clean snow and ice off your vehicle; slow down; give other driver’s space, especially snowplows; [and] wear your seatbelt.”

Off the roads, Roach also advises residents to make sure their homes are prepared for the colder weather, and the additional load it puts on heating systems.

“It's important to make sure that your carbon monoxide detectors and fire alarms are working, because your heater [or] furnace will be more active in the colder weather,” he said.

While the snowfall may have slowed down, Chenango County is still grappling with potentially dangerous winter weather. 

The National Weather Service issued a Special Weather Statement at 4:48 this morning warning residents of additional snow showers and gusty winds to come, as well as a Hazardous Weather Outlook at 5:13 a.m., predicting Arctic winds and below-zero temperatures later this week.

“Snow showers and northwest winds 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph will continue this morning. Expect up to one inch of additional snow accumulation. Areas of blowing and drifting snow are also occurring this morning,” read the report. “Another outbreak of Arctic air will spill into the region late in the week. Low temperatures Thursday night and Friday night will drop into below zero in many areas, with wind chill values of -5 to -20.”