Joy Peterson posted on January 08, 2011 15:39
ROME –Local public safety officials attended at weather briefing this afternoon by the National Weather Service. According to the NWS, the Rome-Floyd County area should be prepared for a winter storm that will bring up to 5” of snow beginning Sunday evening. Snow will continue to fall Sunday night and through the day Monday.
A main concern for our area is the high winds coupled with the heavy snowfall. Citizens should be prepared for possible power outages. Some melting will occur during the day, but the temperatures will dip into the lower 20s in the evening. Another concern is the wintry mix on the backend of this system. Drivers should expect icy road conditions beginning Sunday evening and continuing until Wednesday.
Our local public works departments are on standby and will be reporting Sunday evening. They are prepared with resources to keep the roads as safe as possible, but EMA is encouraging people to stay home if possible. Extra staff members for our public safety departments are on standby.
EMA staff have also been in contact with local Georgia Department of Transportation and Georgia Power employees and they are on standby, ready to assist.
Take the following precautions to provide for the safety and security of their family and property during a winter storm:
1. Keep your radio or television tuned to a local station to keep informed of current weather conditions and forecasts.
2. Be prepared at home by keeping adequate supplies: heating fuel, non-perishable food, clean water, flashlights with extra batteries, first aid supplies, extra blankets, and a battery powered radio. A fire extinguisher is also recommended for year-round use, if needed, in your home.
3. Keep some kind of emergency heating equipment and fuel on hand so you can keep at least one room of your house livable in case your power is off. Keep the room ventilated to avoid buildup of toxic fumes.
4. Stay indoors as much as possible. If you must go outdoors, dress warm in loose-fitting, layered, lightweight clothing. Your outer garment should be water repellent. Avoid overexertion from walking to get supplies.
5. Driving conditions might be hazardous, so use precaution while driving.
Floyd County employees can call the Weather Alert phone number at 706-291-5144 to check the status of county offices Monday morning.
For more information concerning emergency management in Floyd County, please visit www.romefloyd.com or call 706.236.5004.
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