Elfer on winter weather safety

Officials are working to prepare for the winter weather moving through our area over the next several days.

Emergency Management Director John Elfer has taken some time out to let the public know how to prepare and what to expect in the days ahead.

Anticipate slick roadways, potential power outages and perhaps even some closures as we move into next week with precipitation coupled with freezing temperatures forecast for our area.

“You need to check on vulnerable adults, folks that live alone that may not have adequate heat, you need to prepare your pipes, your outdoor pets,” Elfer advised.  “We don’t want people to go out and panic buy things, but you do need to have some supplies for a couple of days where you don’t have to get out, and if you do have to get out we want you to use caution.”

Monday, Elfer said, is expected to be the apex of the weather’s impact, as temperatures are likely to remain below freezing throughout the day Monday along with an 80% chance of precipitation.

For those that have vaccination appointments scheduled for Monday at the Uptown Vicksburg mall site, Elfer says that each person will be contacted by phone or email with their re-scheduled appointment date if the weather does force the site to close.  The decision to close or remain open will likely be made on Sunday, when the impact of the winter weather on the operation of the site, as well as safe transportation to and from your appointment, will become more apparent.

Citizens are encouraged to plan ahead, use caution on the roadways, especially bridges and overpasses, and check on your friends and neighbors.

Remember, “hope is not a plan.”