State Police Advise Drivers Stay Off Roads During Pending Storm

Meteorologists are predicting more significant snowfall to hit Salem and parts of Southern New Hampshire on Saturday into Sunday.

According to the National Weather Service there is a high probability of heavy, wet snow that could impact portions of Western and Central Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire on Saturday into Sunday. Amounts may range around 6 to 10 inches across higher terrain. Downed trees and tree limbs will be possible and could result in scattered power outages. Untreated roadways will likely become snow covered resulting in slippery and hazardous travel.

In preparation for the upcoming snow expected this weekend, the New Hampshire State Police are reminding New Hampshire residents that road travel is anticipated to be the greatest hazard from this storm.  

"We would like to remind everyone to limit road travel from Saturday evening into Sunday morning to allow our partners from the Department of Transportation to clear and treat the roads," State Police said in a press release.

For those who must drive, police remind motorists to  slow down and allow extra space between their vehicle and others. Winter conditions call for different driving tactics including driving at slower speeds, accelerating slower, steering slower and braking slower.

"Please keep both hands on the wheel and eyes on the road," police said. "Driving in a snowstorm is not the time to be driving while distracted."

They also remind residents not to drive to closely to plow trucks and not to travel beside them for long periods of time as snow plow drivers' sight lines are obstructed.

"Before venturing out, please make sure you've cleared the snow off all of your vehicle's windows and lights, to include your brake lights and turn signals.  And always buckle up," police said. "The best place to be during a snow storm is home.  If you must be on the roadways, give yourself extra time to reach your destination safely."