Crews across the state are set to hit the road to deal with the pending snow. While the amount of snow may not be a big concern for them, the timing is.
"It makes me want to call into work," said Luke Banzer of Carmel, NY.
While it would have been nice to have Tuesday off, Luke Banzer and thousands of others will hit the road knowing their evening commute might not be as pleasant as the morning drive.
It's expected that weather and road conditions will deteriorate in the afternoon, so drivers need to make sure they're in winter-driving mode.
"Definitely got to drive slow, give myself more time, and be cautious of the other drivers on the road because you do see accidents out there," said Banzer.
"That's always a challenge the first couple of snow storms, that people maybe drive a little too fast and not paying attention to conditions of the road," said Waterbury Department of Public Works Director David Simpson.
Crews pre-treated roads in places with higher elevation like Waterbury.
Local
Waterbury DPW says they're stocked up and crews and equipment are ready to go. The fleet will move out to treat streets prior to the storm and remain out long after it’s over. Simpson says while not a lot of snow is expected, the snowfall hitting evening traffic can add complications.
"There will be more traffic on the road which means it's slower moving with our equipment. We'll coordinate any early dismissal or school challenges during the day with the education department," said Simpson.
Regional School District 10 (Burlington/Harwinton) has been monitoring the snow forecast since Sunday and district officials are prepared to cancel any after school events if needed.
"We'll be a little cautious in the morning just to make sure there's no black ice and to make sure the roads are salted and sanded but at this point I’ve talked to the two highway foreman and they're both comfortable that their trucks are ready, they're men are ready," Region 10 Supt. Alan Beitman said.
There are no current plans for an early dismissal, but the district and parents remain concerned about the safety of children, specifically new drivers on the roads as the storm is hitting.
"This is his first winter driving and as a mom it scares me," Maria Gorski, of Burlington, said of her son, Jon.
"She just goes over like if it's snowing or if it's icy out to be extra careful," Jon Gorski, of Burlington, said.
Buses are also preparing for the snow.
“We got spot chains on the bus, we can put them on anytime we want," Newington bus driver Charles Roberts said. "It works in reverse, it works in forward and of course the town of Newington keeps the roads really clean here.”
Robert has been driving school children for 21 years and said Newington bus drivers do a pre-trip before every run to make sure everything is working properly from the brakes to the windshield wipers to the tire pressure. As a proud New Englander, he's not concerned about Tuesday's storm.
"We go slow, we have enough time in between runs so if it takes a little longer we still get to school on time and safety is our biggest concern," Roberts said.
Most school districts will send out alerts for closings and you can also sign up for notifications through our website and the NBC Connecticut app or check our closings page.
Like any other winter weather event, everyone's urged to stay alert and slow it down.
"Slow down, take your time, get home safe," said Simpson.
AAA recommends also preparing your car for the weather and using caution on the roads. They warn you to prepare for delays and give yourself extra time to get to your destination.
