Friday, January 22, 2016

Atlantic County Storm Prep Activities Continue

With a winter storm warning now in effect for our region beginning this evening through Sunday, Atlantic County officials continue to prepare by mobilizing resources and reviewing their emergency plans. Residents are strongly recommended to do the same.

Snow is expected to begin after dark this evening with increasing intensity during the overnight hours. County public work crews are currently pre-treating all county roadways with brine to help delay snow from accumulating on road surfaces.

Motorists are reminded to stay well behind salt trucks and snow plows. And when shoveling your driveways, place snow on the "down" street side, to the left of the driveway when facing it from the street.

There is a potential for a wintry mix of snow, sleet and rain that will make for a heavy "wet" snow in some areas which may cling to utility wires and trees leading to power outages. Moderate to severe flooding is also a possibility along the coastal communities.

If the storm results in prolonged power outages, there are steps you can take to minimize food loss and to keep all members of your household as comfortable as possible. Visit www.ReadyAtlantic.org prior to the storm to learn more as well as to access information regarding the safe use of generators and other alternative heating devices.

"Residents should be prepared to stay put this weekend with a sufficient supply of food, water, batteries, battery-charged radios, flashlights, sufficiently charged electronic devices, necessary medications and provisions for infants and the elderly as well as pets," stated Vince Jones, Atlantic County Emergency Management Coordinator.

"For areas that are prone to flooding, residents should consider moving their vehicles to higher ground before this evening," Jones added. "And as always, do not attempt to drive through flood waters."

Those in need of assistance during the storm should contact their local office of emergency management. Contacts numbers are available on www.ReadyAtlantic.org and in the phone book.

At this time there are no plans to evacuate communities.

"Our hope is that people will be able to shelter in place, if necessary. However, should conditions deteriorate and become a risk for overall public safety, we will implement our emergency plans in accordance with state and local officials," Jones said.

Residents are advised to continue to monitor weather forecasts, media outlets and county web sites for updates as well as to heed the recommendations of local emergency management officials.

Click here to learn more about preparing for a winter storm.

County News