Residents urged to prepare for winter weather

The National Weather Service has issued a WINTER STORM WATCH in effect from the morning hours through the evening of Tuesday, January 21, 2025. This watch means WINTER STORM conditions are anticipated within the next 24 hours locally.

Heavy mixed precipitation is possible during the watch with total snow and sleet accumulations between 1 and 3 inches and a light glaze of ice accumulation possible.

The precipitation is expected to fall between Tuesday morning into late Tuesday night. 

The precipitation will cause slippery road conditions, especially on bridges and overpasses throughout the area. Any and all unnecessary travel is not recommended because of the potential for “black ice” on area thoroughfares throughout the day on Tuesday and into Wednesday.

In addition, residents are also urged to prepare their homes and vehicles for DANGEROUSLY temperatures as a COLD WEATHER ADVISORY is in effect from 9 p.m., Sunday, January 19 through 11 a.m., Monday, January 20, 2025.

Very cold wind chills as low as 8 above or lower are expected in the area.

Wind chills values below 25 degrees can be hazardous with long exposure to humans and animals. Air temperatures below 30 degrees will also result in damage to sensitive crops. Air temperature this cold can also damage unprotected outdoor plumbing.

Use caution while outdoors. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat and gloves.

Make frequent checks on older family, friends and neighbors. Ensure portable heaters are used correctly. Do not use generators or grills inside.

To prevent freezing and possible bursting of outdoor water pipes, they should be wrapped, drained or allowed to drip slowly. Those that have in-ground sprinkler systems should drain them and cover above-ground pipes to protect them from freezing.