Navigating Winter Weather: When to Skip Work Due to Snow

Winter weather can be unpredictable, but one question frequently surfaces: how much snow on the ground makes commuting to work too dangerous? Let's explore the experiences and considerations of navigating wintery conditions, from blizzards like “the Big One” in Minnesota to the milder winters in the southern United States and the rugged conditions in Norway.

Experiences in Different Regions

Minnesota

In Minnesota, winter weather can be extreme. The author recalls an incident where a single snowstorm brought 1.5 meters of snow, with buses sliding on what should have been flat roads. Consequently, in such severe conditions, it's better to stay home. The author only resumed their duties four days later after a significant amount of snow had been cleared.

Neighborhoods also play a role, especially when secondary roads remain uncleared. During such events, neighbors often pitch in to help each other clear their driveways, allowing everyone to move their vehicles to main roads.

Northern Nevada

Living in northern Nevada, the author hasn't faced significant road closures that would prevent them from going to work. Even with six inches of snow, an individual can clear a path to the main road. However, frequent snowfall does not seem to be a common occurrence in the region, with the author noting that they have yet to miss work due to snow. The author, like many in their area, hasn't even purchased winter tires or chains, showing a level of comfort and preparedness specific to their climate.

Upper South of the US

In the upper southern states, snowfall is not as frequent, making people less accustomed to driving on snow-covered roads. The author's answer is context-dependent. When the first measurable snowfall occurs, they are willing to stay home, regardless of the amount. Similar to Minnesota, this often leads to a need for a refresher course on winter driving skills.

The author's judgment involves several factors, including the time of day, the amount of snow, and the ability to avoid heavy traffic. Owning an all-wheel-drive (AWD) vehicle helps, but the low ground clearance poses a risk in deep snow. For instance, driving in snow more than 8 inches deep compromises the car's safety, especially with the risk of damage to front air dams or fog lights.

Norway

In Norway, every snowstorm is a challenge. Unlike the other regions described, the author has never missed work due to snow due to the reliability of road maintenance. However, there are instances when the snow can cause severe disruption. In 1993, extremely heavy snow led to numerous drivers switching to summer tires, which became problematic when the snow melted. One photographer's images show the impact of such conditions. Similarly, in the 2022-2023 winter, a road to the author's workplace was blocked by two stuck trucks, preventing them from reaching the office on time.

Workplace Policies and Personal Considerations

Workplace policies often determine the ability to stay home during severe weather. For the author, staying home depends on the boss's policies and the personal judgment of whether the drive is safe. Trust in one's own driving abilities is crucial, but the experience of some drivers highlights the risky nature of winter driving conditions.

Winter tires and chains are considered safety equipment for those regions where deep snow is common. In areas like Minnesota and parts of Norway, these tools can make a significant difference in safe winter driving. Clearing paths to main roads and understanding local conditions are also important in ensuring a safe commute.

Ultimately, the decision to stay home or brave the snow depends on a balance between personal judgment, workplace policies, and a thorough understanding of local winter conditions. Understanding the context and experiences of different regions can help everyone stay safe while navigating the challenges of winter weather.