According to the National Weather Service, Winter Storm Harper is expected to impact Madison County Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 19 and 20. Snow is expected in the afternoon on Saturday with the heaviest Saturday evening through Sunday morning with accumulations of 12-18 inches.
Along with the storm, winds Sunday will increase and temperature will decrease. The area can expect dangerously cold wind chills in the negative teens to 20s possible through Monday.
Madison County wants to make sure residents are ready for this storm and for the extreme temperatures. Madison County Office of Emergency Management is reminding residents to stay safe this weekend.
Do not drive unless necessary. If you must drive, use extreme caution, roadways can be slippery and icy.
- Do not drive unless necessary. If you must drive, use extreme caution, roadways can be slippery and icy.
- Make sure your car has blankets, a shovel, gas and a charger for your phone
- Try to stay indoors
- Make sure your home is equipped with food, extra blankets and emergency heating equipment
- Keep an eye on pipes to prevent them from freezing
- Make sure to dress for the weather – wear loose, warm clothing in layers
- Always wear a hat, cover your mouth with a scarf and wear gloves
- Prolonged exposure to the cold temperatures can cause hypothermia or frostbite
- Also remember when clearing the snow to slow down and avoid over exertion
- Keep your pets inside
- Please check on the elderly or those dependent on life-sustaining or health-related equipment