News
City and county prepare for incoming weather
The City of Vicksburg and Warren County are preparing for the weather coming our way.
Warren County Emergency Management Director John Elfer hosted a weather update meeting Thursday morning. In attendance were representatives from the Vicksburg Fire Department, Warren County Fire Service, the Vicksburg Warren School District, including Dr. Holloway, Warren County Board of Supervisors, the Sheriff’s Office including Sheriff Pace, and the City Safety Department. The National Weather Service in Jackson gave the most recent update.
After the weather update, Elfer and the assembled group made plans and exchanged pertinent information.
The predictions are dire. High winds will hit the area starting at four in the morning. Since the 10 a.m. briefing, the risk has been elevated from slight to enhanced for our area. The chance of high winds is more probable now than when the earlier forecast was made. Downed trees and power lines should be anticipated.
On Monday morning around 3 a.m., the temperature will drop below freezing and stay there until sometime Wednesday, according to the most recent prediction. If power lines are still down from the Friday storm that means numerous people in the area could be without a way to get warm when the Arctic airmass hits the area.
Sheriff Pace, Deputy Watkins, and Earnie Hall from the River City Rescue Mission traveled to area homeless camps to warn people about the incoming storms. Additionally, the River City Rescue Mission is opening its doors to anyone who needs shelter.
City and county road crews have the equipment to spread salt and sand if precipitation accompanies the cold weather.
Area residents are urged to get supplies to last 72 hours in case we have a worst-case scenario. One of the primary things is to make sure you have ways to receive information. The Vicksburg Daily News will be providing constant updates on the storm and area conditions.
If you find yourself in a situation where you cannot get heat, food, or shelter you are encouraged to call 911 or the non-emergency number, 601-631-8800.
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