Winter Storm to Impact Southern Indiana; Residents Urged to Prepare Now

0

 

In partnership with the Indiana Department of Homeland Security the Indiana State Police is sharing this important weather related message.

A winter storm is expected to disrupt travel in southern Indiana this evening into Monday. Public safety agencies, including county emergency management agencies and the Indiana Department of Homeland Security are urging residents to prepare now for heavy snow and cold temperatures.

The National Weather Service predicts 4-8 inches of snow is possible for areas across southern Indiana. The heaviest snow is expected overnight into Monday, and will make commuting in the morning difficult.

Travel 

Heavy snowfall and windy conditions will make travel hazardous this evening through Monday. Hoosiers should carefully consider if travel is necessary during this time. Use a variety of sources to make an informed decision.

One of those sources is the Indiana County Travel Advisory Map. It’s updated with information from the county emergency management agencies and describes the conditions for a travel warning, watch, advisory and caution.

The map is available online at http://www.in.gov/dhs/traveladvisory/, or on a mobile device by downloading the Indiana Travel Advisory app for iPhone (https://appsto.re/us/QHVw4.i) in the App Store, and Android (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=gov.in.traveladvisory) in the Google Play Store.

Keep an eye on road conditions and closures across the state using the Indiana Department of Transportation’s TrafficWise service at trafficwise.in.gov.

In addition to these tools, stay aware of changing travel conditions by monitoring the local news, travel, weather and trusted social media sites and apps.

If travel is necessary, let someone know the planned route, expected time of arrival and contact information. Charge cell phones before leaving. Pack essential items such as high protein snacks, water, first aid kit, flashlight, warm blankets, extra prescription medications and important documents or information that might be needed during an emergency.

Have a Plan 

Strong winds may cause power outages. Residents should charge cell phones, laptops, and other devices now. Other items that should be gathered ahead of time include:

• Food and water for three days (includes three gallons of water per person, per day)

• Battery operated or hand crank all hazards radio

• Flashlight

• Extra batteries for radio and flashlight

• Extra clothing, warm blankets, sleeping bags for staying warm in your home if you lose power

• Special items (baby formula, insulin, medications)

 

Families should also take the time to check with neighbors and see if there’s anything they can do for each other before, during or after the storm.