Plattsburgh, NY – Roads across the North Country could turn icy late Tuesday night as freezing rain spreads into northern New York and northwest Vermont, creating hazardous travel conditions for the Wednesday morning commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Burlington, a Winter Weather Advisory takes effect at 11 p.m. Tuesday and continues until 2 p.m. Wednesday. The system could produce a glaze up to 0.10 inches of ice, enough to coat untreated roads, sidewalks, and elevated surfaces.
The advisory includes northern St. Lawrence, Franklin, and Clinton counties in New York, along with Grand Isle County in Vermont. Communities expected to see the greatest impacts include Plattsburgh, Massena, Malone, Potsdam, Gouverneur, Champlain, Saranac Lake, Tupper Lake, and South Hero.
Even small amounts of ice may create slick conditions on major routes such as I-87 (the Adirondack Northway), U.S. Route 11, and Route 37, along with rural highways across the North Country. Bridges and overpasses are especially likely to ice over first overnight.
Officials urge drivers to slow down, increase following distance, and allow extra travel time Wednesday morning. Residents should also watch for icy steps, sidewalks, and driveways that could increase the risk of falls.
Freezing rain may linger into early Wednesday afternoon before temperatures gradually improve. Additional advisories or updates may be issued if ice accumulation increases overnight.
