Rochester readies for measurable snow

ROCHESTER, N.Y. – It’s December in Western New York, so snow is to be expected.

But Monroe County hasn’t recorded much of it. Indeed, we’re 12 inches below normal for snowfall this time of year.

Indeed, it’s been a mild winter, but Thursday will get a little more intense. News10NBC First Alert Weather is forecasting a wintry mix hitting our area in the afternoon, dropping anywhere from 2-5 inches by evening.

A winter weather advisory has been issued by the National Weather Service and is in effect from 1 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday.

“We’re very excited. The first one’s always the most fun. You know, we haven’t had any snow yet. So this this time we get to scratch that itch,” said Dennis McCarthy, vice president of Mayer Paint & Hardware on North Winton Road.

McCarthy says it’s the most wonderful time of the year for those who love winter. And for those who don’t, well, the store has the necessary essentials.

“We’ve had tons of customers in for shovels, ice melter, rock, salt, snowblowers, everything winter weather-related,” he said.

Part of his job includes education.

“I’ve had people come in and say, ‘Someone said I need a brush for my car or a scraper. What are they talking about?’ And it’s just, ‘Oh, man, I’m so sorry for you.’ But, they learn pretty quick. They’ll come back now knowing by the second storm,” McCarthy said.

Triple AAA is reminding people how to drive in the snow and ice.

“So 46 percent of bad weather crashes take place in the wintertime. That’s almost half of bad weather crashes,” according to Mark Gruba, spokesman.

It’s important to slow down, increase the distance between your car and other cars around you, and brake and turn the wheel so you don’t lock up your car.

“Everybody who lives around here knows the top-of-the-list items. Have a snow brush and an ice scraper. You want to have those things. But here’s some other things you should have as well: jumper cables, a blanket in the car, flashlight, shovel, kitty litter or sand or mats,” Gruba said.

Also on the list: an extra phone charger.

New York State Electric & Gas and Rochester Gas & Electric are prepping for high winds, and urging people to have extra batteries and stay away from downed wires.

“Luckily, this one doesn’t seem like it’s going to be too bad: nothing, you know, Rochesterians can’t handle, so it’ll be a good one to ease into the winter weather,” McCarthy said.