For Immediate Release: December 9, 2009; 3:30 p.m.

Travel Advisory: Thruway Authority Announces Inclement Weather for WNY Motorists Advised to Drive With Caution

The New York State Thruway Authority advises motorists traveling in Western New York to be prepared for inclement winter weather and high winds beginning tonight, December 9, through Saturday morning, December 12, 2009.

Thruway Authority maintenance crews will be out in full force working to keep the travel lanes as clear as possible throughout the duration of the storm.

Weather forecasts indicate areas of Western New York, particularly Chautauqua and Erie Counties, could receive up to 2-3 feet of snow through Saturday morning.  Forecasts also indicate winds will be very strong this evening into Thursday, December 10, 2009.  Wind gusts of 45-55 mph are possible.  Commercial vehicles, especially tractor trailers that are traveling without full loads, are advised to plan ahead and travel with caution during periods of high winds.

As always, all motorists are encouraged to drive safely, be alert and allow more distance between their vehicle and others as stopping distances become longer during inclement weather. As a reminder, posted speed limits are for ideal driving conditions and during inclement weather, it is necessary to slow down.

Motorists are also reminded to always maintain a safe following distance behind snow plows; do not tailgate. Motorists should always be able to see the plows mirrors; if motorists cannot see the plow's mirrors, the snowplow operator cannot see them.

During the winter months, the Thruway Authority provides motorists with road condition and weather-related information 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling 1-800-THRUWAY (1-800-847-8929). The Thruways TDD/TTY number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-253-6244. Motorists may also obtain weather information by logging onto www.nysthruway.gov. From the homepage, click on Traveler Information, then click on Weather Travel Advisory, under Travel Conditions/Maps.

Additionally, the Authority offers a free email service called TRANSalert to its customers via email or text messaging to inform them of major unscheduled incidents that may affect their travel on the Thruway.  To sign up for the TRANSalert service, motorists can visit the Authoritys website at www.nysthruway.gov/tas/.  Motorists using this service are advised to check for messages before traveling.

The Authority remains committed to providing high levels of safety and service throughout the winter season and year round.

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