Wintry precipitation is on the forecast for most of us here in Southeast Georgia. Statesboro is under a winter storm warning from 5 p.m. tonight until noon tomorrow, according to the National Weather Service. The city of Statesboro issued a local state of emergency Monday evening in anticipation for the winter storm.
Current Forecast
According to the National Weather Service, the forecast for Statesboro is as follows:
- Tuesday: “A chance of rain after 1 p.m., mixing with snow after 4 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 40. Wind chill values as low as 15. Northeast wind 7 to 9 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.”
- Tuesday Night: “Snow, mainly after 7 p.m. Low around 22. Wind Chill values as low as 15. North wind 7 to 9 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New snow accumulation of less than one inch possible”.
- Wednesday: “A 20 percent chance of snow showers before 10 a.m. Mostly sunny, with a high near 36. Northeast wind 7 to 9 mph”.
- Wednesday Night: “Partly cloudy, with a low around 18”.
(This is a forecast which means this has the potential to change, monitor updated forecasts)
One to 3 inches of snow is currently in the forecast for Bulloch County. This rare occurrence for South Georgia poses potential threats to infrastructure and now is the time to prepare.
Roads
Icy conditions can lead to danger on the roadways. Avoiding travel if possible is the most foolproof way to keep yourself safe during slick conditions. If you must go out on Tuesday night through Thursday; the American Red Cross has a few tips to help keep you and others safe.
- Bring your cell phone and make sure the battery is charged.
- Plan to travel during the daylight and, if possible, take another person with you.
- Let someone know your destination, your route, and when you expect to arrive.
- Before leaving, check the weather reports for all areas you will be passing through.
- Watch out for sleet, freezing rain, freezing drizzle, and dense fog.
Black Ice is another concern that could pose dangers from Wednesday night into Thursday. Black Ice is refrozen ice that is difficult to see from the naked eye. If you encounter a patch of Black Ice on the road, slow down by de-accelerating, and do not hit your brakes.
Utilities and Power
In the event of losing power, electricity, or water make sure you are prepared ahead of time! Blankets are important to have on hand, as wind chills the nights following will be in the teens. Hypothermia and frostbite can happen in the temperatures we are forecasted to have. Keep an eye on local weather reports in the event of a boil water advisory. Make sure you have a gallon of water per day, per person. Power outages and estimated restoration times can be found on the Georgia Power website.
Heater/Generator Safety
Generator Safety: If you choose to use a generator in the event of a widespread power outage, here are some tips from FEMA, to keep yourself safe!
Be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions on how to use the generator.
- Do not use a generator indoors or in particularly enclosed spaces – even those areas with partial ventilation
- Do not operate near open doors and windows. Using fans will not prevent carbon monoxide build-up in the home
- Install battery-powered carbon monoxide alarms inside your home to alert you of dangerous levels. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommended placement.
Heater Safety: Heaters are an important tool in the case of power cutting out in bitterly cold conditions. The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers recommends:
- DO NOT leave the operating heater unattended and always unplug the heater when not in use.
- DO NOT use your heater with a power strip or extension cord. Overheating of a power strip or extension cord could result in a fire.
- String out cords on top of any area rugs or carpeting. Place anything, including furniture, on top or the cord may damage it.
Snow is extremely rare in this part of the country so enjoy yourself! It is also important to remain prepared, as conditions can change, and fluctuate. Infrastructure in South Georgia is not built for wintry precipitation. While state crews are already on standby; even a quarter of an inch of ice can do major damage to local utilities. Enjoy your snow days, and stay safe out there!