Winter Storm Approaching Shrewsbury

The National Weather Service has upgraded its hazardous weather outlook to a winter storm watch, predicting up to 5 inches of snow for Shrewsbury and much of eastern New England.

The snowfall is expected to being Wednesday afternoon with the heaviest amounts falling late Wednesday night into early Thursday morning.

"A fairly dry snow is expected," said a statement from the NWS. "Poor visibility at times and accumulating snow could lead to slippery travel. The timing of snow could impact the Wednesday evening commute, and should impact the Thursday morning commute."

The Massachusetts State Police recommend several actions for motorists who may be traveling in the bad weather. 

"With a forecast of inclement weather, motorists should ensure that their vehicles are well maintained and properly equipped for winter driving," said police. "Motorists should check the fluid levels of their vehicles, particularly washer fluid and anti-freeze, to make sure that they are at adequate levels. Tires should be inspected to ensure that they are properly inflated and have sufficient tread depth. Motorists should equip their vehicles with a snow shovel, ice scraper, jumper cables, flares, a flashlight and some warm clothing and blankets.  Additionally, motorists are reminded to completely clear their vehicles of snow and ice prior to driving, including all lights, for visibility."

In addition, lowering your driving speed and allowing additional distance between is a huge factor in preventing potentially disastrous motor vehicle accidents. 

And perhaps one of the greatest factors in freezing weather is black ice. 

"Transparent ice may form on the roadway," said a release. "If you notice ice forming on any objects, assume that it is forming on the road surface as well. Bridges are usually the first surfaces to freeze. Drive slowly and, if possible, avoid driving on iced-over surfaces."