Warren County’s first brush with winter weather for the year arrived Friday, bringing with it snow and hazardous road conditions.

Snow began in McMinnville at approximately 7 a.m. on Friday and an estimated two inches of snow blanketed the area by 3 p.m. Forecasts for the county leading up to the event estimated between four and six inches of snow would drop by Saturday, but the winter storm warning later extended to the area called for a reduced snow and sleet accumulation between one and three inches by 9 p.m.

This amount of substantial snowfall has not been seen since last January when a significant winter storm dropped several inches of snow in the area. Last year’s system was punctuated with well below-zero temperatures, but this year’s storm kept them hovering between the high teens and 30s.

Along with the snow, hazardous road conditions were produced for some parts of the county while most main roadways were relatively clear by local personnel. By 4 p.m. on Friday, there had been at least 14 minor motor vehicle accidents without injuries and five stranded motorists reported to dispatch.

“We typically see a lot more than that,” Director of Emergency Services Chuck Haston reported.

“They’ve done a good job treating and plowing the major roads and it appears that most folks have stayed off the roads, which helps tremendously. It is still early, but we are hopeful the trend will continue.”

As always, it is suggested that residents remain off the roads, if possible, but use tremendous caution if they must drive.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) advises motorists to fill gas tanks or plug in electric vehicles as soon as possible, if not immediately before inclement weather, and plan to set aside additional time for their routes to account for delays and troublesome roadways. Visibility can be reduced during hazy winter weather and NHTSA states checking all lights on your vehicle before driving are important for helping both yourself to see the roads and other motorists to see you. NHTSA recommends all who anticipate being on the road to stock their vehicles with various supplies such as an ice scraper, cat litter for if your car gets stuck in the snow, jumper cables, flashlight, flares or emergency markers, first-aid kid, blankets for protection from the cold, a cellphone charger, water, food and any necessary medication.

When operating a vehicle on icy roads, it is suggested to go slowly, wear your seatbelt and drive only while sober.