On Tuesday at 12:31 a.m. the National Weather Service issued a winter weather advisory in effect until 9 a.m. for Mobile and Baldwin counties.

The weather service describes, “Freezing rain is expected. Total ice accumulation of a light glaze up to 0.05 inches with a few isolated spots potentially receiving up to 0.10 inches.”

“Exposed skin may quickly become frostbitten or frozen. Wind chill values may fall to extremely dangerous levels and frostbite and hypothermia are possible if precautions are not taken,” adds the weather service. “Delay all travel if possible. If travel is necessary, drive with extreme caution and be prepared for sudden changes in visibility. Leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle ahead of you. Allow extra time to reach your destination. Avoid sudden braking or acceleration and be especially cautious on hills or when making turns. You are urged to stay indoors until conditions improve. If you must go outside, several layers of clothes will keep you warmer than a single heavy coat. A hat is also important as half your body heat loss can be from the head.”

Winter driving essentials: Recommendations from the weather service for safe journeys

Winter’s icy grip often turns roads treacherous, leading to over 6,000 weather-related vehicle fatalities and more than 480,000 injuries each year. When you find yourself on snowy or freezing rain-slicked roads, your top priority should be safety. Slow down and exercise caution. In temperatures near freezing, it’s prudent to assume icy patches on the road and adjust your driving accordingly. Be on alert for ice accumulating on power lines and tree branches, as they may break and fall. If possible, avoid driving in these conditions altogether. But if you must venture out, choose routes with fewer trees and power lines, and never touch a downed power line. If you encounter one, dial 911 immediately. Here are additional winter weather driving tips:

1. Share your travel plans:

When venturing out of town in hazardous winter weather, be sure to inform family or friends of your destination, your intended route, and your estimated arrival time.

2. Prepare your vehicle:

Ensure your gas tank is full and equip your vehicle with essential winter supplies such as a windshield scraper, jumper cables, a small shovel, flashlight, cell phone, blanket, extra warm clothing, drinking water, and high-calorie non-perishable food.

3. Stay calm when stranded:

If you become stranded, remain composed. Inform someone about your situation and location. Avoid attempting to walk to safety. Indicate that you need assistance by attaching a cloth to your car’s antenna or mirror, and make your vehicle more visible by using the dome light and flashers

4. Be mindful of snow plows:

Keep an eye out for snow plows and allow them ample room to pass. Only overtake a plow when you have a clear view of the road ahead.

5. Check road conditions:

Before embarking on your journey, check the latest road conditions to make informed travel decisions.

Stay safe on wintry roads with these valuable winter driving tips from the weather service, and reduce the risk of accidents during challenging weather conditions.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.