Marshall County is currently included in a Winter Weather Advisory which goes into effect from 5am (EST) Saturday morning thru midnight Saturday night. Lake effect snow accumulations of between 3 to 5 inches are expected with local higher amounts possible depending on where snow bands set up. In addition, strong gusty winds as high as 30 mph which will cause blowing and drifting snow on roads leading to limited visibility and slippery roads. Here are a few reminders that can help keep you safe:
Stay Informed:
The National Weather Service outlooks and watches can provide you a heads up on storm potential days in advance. Weather warnings and advisories indicate weather conditions that are likely to cause you problems, have already begun, or will begin soon.
Develop a Plan:
Businesses, schools, communities and individuals should prepare for winter weather by developing a plan now before it arrives. Having a plan will help to minimize the disruption that happens when a significant winter weather event occurs. A plan also helps keep employees, students, public safety officials and citizens safe.
Put together an Emergency Kit:
You can also be prepared by putting together an emergency kit to carry in your vehicle. Your kit should include:
o Mobile phone charger
o Extra clothing, blankets or a sleeping bag
o Flashlight and extra batteries
o Jumper cables
o Tow strap
o Small tool kit
o Emergency flares
o Shovel
o Sand or cat litter for traction
o Windshield scraper and brush
o High-calorie, non-perishable food
o First-aid kit
o Knife
o Toilet paper
o Waterproof matches or lighter
o Small can to melt snow for drinking water
Travel Advisory System:
Marshall County uses a Travel Advisory system that mirrors the Indiana Department of Homeland Security’s. The system is designed to protect the public by providing them with a standardized format that they can use as a reference to make informed decisions that could impact their safety when traveling on county roads during certain conditions. The decision to issue a travel advisory is made by the Marshall County Commissioners based on information provided to them by the Marshall County Highway Department, Marshall County Sheriff’s Department, and the Marshall County Emergency Management Agency as to the road conditions in the unincorporated areas of the county. The Commissioners do not control the Interstates and State Roads such as U.S. 30 and U.S. 31, State Road 17, 10, etc… They also do not make decisions regarding travel restrictions inside city or town corporate boundaries.
When a decision is made to implement a Travel Advisory or Travel Restriction, the following format is used:
- Warning
- A “Warning” is the highest level of local travel advisory. It means that travel may be restricted to emergency management workers only. During a “Warning” local travel advisory, individuals are directed to:
- (A) refrain from all travel;
- (B) comply with necessary emergency measures;
- (C) cooperate with public officials and disaster services forces in executing emergency operations plans; and
- (D) Obey and comply with the lawful directions of properly identified officers.
- A “Warning” is the highest level of local travel advisory. It means that travel may be restricted to emergency management workers only. During a “Warning” local travel advisory, individuals are directed to:
- Watch
- A “Watch” level travel advisory means that conditions are threatening to the safety of the public. During a “Watch” local travel advisory, only essential travel, such as to and from work, or in emergency situations is recommended. Emergency action plans should be implemented by businesses, schools, government agencies, and other organizations.
- Advisory
- The lowest level, an “Advisory” means that routine travel or activities may be restricted in areas because of a hazardous situation and individuals should use caution or avoid those areas.
For additional information regarding winter weather preparedness, can contact the Marshall County Emergency Management Agency at 574-936-3740. Sign up to receive alerts at NIXLE.com or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
Remember: Emergency Preparedness Is Everyone’s Responsibility
