AAA reports a major surge in emergency roadside assistance calls following last week’s snowstorms and extreme cold across the region.

Between Saturday and Thursday, AAA handled more than 37,000 service calls, an increase of about 80% above a typical winter week. The most common problems include dead batteries, towing requests, and vehicles stuck in snow.

“Our call centers have been extremely busy, and there’s no sign of things slowing down,” said Jim Garrity, director of public affairs for AAA East Central. He urges drivers to take extra precautions in the bitter cold to avoid breakdowns.

AAA says dead batteries alone account for more than a third of all calls this week. The club encourages motorists to stay home when possible, slow down on slick roads, and make sure vehicles are winter-ready.