Chemung County gears up for second snowstorm of 2022

CHEMUNG COUNTY, N.Y. (WENY) - The region has been dealing with a mix of snow and sleet starting Thursday. Chemung County Public Works has been driving around all Thursday to help keep the roads drivable.
The Twin Tiers is preparing for battle with the second snowstorm of 2022. With more snow on the way, Chemung County remains one area ahead of the frigid surge. Public Works Commissioner Andrew Avery had his staff clear the roadways around the clock.
“We came in early this morning to make sure the roads were safe for the morning commute,” Avery said. “We just went back out right before lunchtime to hit them again because they were starting to ice up. We'll be working tonight as it turns to snow to try and keep them safe.”
Temperature surges this winter have made it harder for counties to prepare for inclement weather. Avery explains how being prepared for any weather curveballs is part of the job.
“It does shift what you might have planned for winter work but, we're used to that,” Avery said. “The main goal is to keep the drivers on the road, keep both residents and our employees safe, and to keep our employees safe from the elements.”
Chemung County Public Works use salt and brine to help keep ice from forming. Avery says this helps make the job easier for road crews.
“It activates quicker, and it keeps any salt you do put down from bouncing around, so you wind up using less material, and it works faster and better,” Avery said. “Better for the environment, better for the drivers on the road, and faster all in all.”
It’s advised for drivers to give snowplows plenty of room on the road. Passing is also advised against due to roads ahead likely being in worse conditions.