MONONGALIA COUNTY, W.Va. First responders in the Monongalia County area reported a relatively safe commute, despite a dose of snow and cold weather. MetroNews Accuweather reported 2 to 4 inches of snow had fallen in the Morgantown area through 11 a.m. Tuesday.
MECCA 911 Executive Director Jim Smith told WAJR News that the call volume was very low considering the conditions during the morning commute.
“We only had nine accidents reported, and we had requests for four motorist assists,” Smith said. “So, the numbers are down compared to the conditions of the roads right now.”
Schools and some organizations began to make schedule changes well before the arrival of inclement weather, and Smith believes that was the main reason for the low number of calls. This is also the third snow event in the area, giving people an opportunity to renew their winter driving skills.
“I think a lot has to do with school getting cancelled early, and I think a lot of people are using more caution on the roads right now,” Smith said.
By noon Tuesday, MetroNews Accuweather said most of the snow will move off to the east and cold air will fill the void. Temperatures and wind chill values drop into the single digits tonight; the forecast temperature above freezing is set for Thursday.
“We look for any slush on the road to turn to ice,” Smith said. “So, everybody, please, if you don’t have to go out, don’t go out, and if you do, take your time, use caution, and keep the distance between you and other vehicles.”