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Drivers should prepare for very slick roads this afternoon

By Howard B. Owens

Recent rain has washed away whatever salt remained on roadways and with temperatures dropping to below freezing this afternoon, the wet roadways are likely to ice over.

That's the warning of the National Weather Service and the same message from County Highway Superintendent Tim Hens when we happened to speak last night about the coming storm.

The storm tonight and tomorrow will bring heavy, wet snow, making driving conditions difficult and very different from the drier snow of recent storms. Drivers need to slow down, Hens warned.

Temperatures will start dropping between 1 and 3 p.m. in Batavia, bringing freezing rain and sleet. Bridges and overpasses will likely freeze over first.

While plow trucks will be out spreading salt, drivers should use extra caution.

Areas of previous flooding could also freeze over.

The National Weather Services advises drivers to plan accordingly.

Between tonight and 4 p.m. tomorrow, from nine to 17 inches of snow is expected.

UPDATE 2:13 p.m.: Stegman Road in the Town of Batavia is closed due to high water.

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