What you need to know
Per a release from the county, the center is a response to a cold weather advisory and winter storm warning from the National Weather Service.
These warnings state that from midnight to 6 p.m. Jan. 21, the area could experience heavy mixed precipitation, with light snow, sleet and ice accumulations expected. Winds are also expected to reach 40 mph, per the NWS.
The details
During this time, roads will likely become slick and hazardous, in particular bridges and highways, according to the winter storm warning. People living in the area are urged to stay indoors until these conditions improve, and to bundle up in warm clothing if going outdoors. It is also advised to delay all travel if possible.
However, if travel cannot be delayed, drivers are advised to drive cautiously, be prepared for sudden changes in visibility and avoid sudden braking or acceleration.
What they're saying
The county's center will be staffed with essential personnel, and the road and bridge division will be checking pavement temperatures and potential icing through the night of Jan. 20, according to the release.
County crews are also on-call to treat roads with de-icing materials and sand, working closely with noncounty entities—like cities—to treat noncounty roadways.
County officials urge residents to be weather aware if traveling.
What else?
Learn more about where warming centers will be operating in your community.
