Winter Weather Advisory Issued for Wayne County This Weekend

A Winter Weather Advisory will be in effect from midnight tonight until midnight on Saturday, the National Weather Service reported.

Approximately four to six inches of snow is expected to fall by Saturday night. Anyone on the roads during the advisory should take caution as visibility will be low and the roads will be slippery.

A Winter Weather Advisory is issued when winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous.

Here are a few steps, provided by the American Red Cross, that residents can take to stay safe during severe winter weather:

• Assembling an Emergency Preparedness Kit: Pack a winter-specific supply kit that includes a warm coat, hat, mittens or gloves, and water-resistant boots, along with extra blankets and extra warm clothing. Sand or non-clumping kitty litter is good to have on hand to help make walkways or steps less slippery. Additionally, make sure you have a first aid kit and essential medications, canned food and can opener, bottled water, flashlights and a battery-powered radio with extra batteries in your home in the event of a power outage.

• Heeding Storm Warnings: A winter storm WATCH means winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36 to 48 hours. People in a watch area should review their winter storm plans and stay informed about weather conditions. A winter storm WARNING means that life-threatening, severe winter conditions have begun or will begin within 24 hours. Individuals in a warning area should take precautions immediately. 

• Preparing Your Home and Car:  Winterize your vehicle and keep the gas tank full, which will help to keep the fuel line from freezing. Make sure your home is properly insulated by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to help keep cold air out. Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year. Running water, even at a trickle, helps to prevent pipes from freezing.