With a Nor’easter on the way, some tips for snow emergencies

Morris Township police are asking residents to clear snow from fire hydrants as a safety measure. Photo by Kevin Coughlin
Morris Township police are asking residents to clear snow from fire hydrants as a safety measure. Photo by Kevin Coughlin
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Morris Township police are asking residents to clear snow from fire hydrants as a safety measure. Photo by Kevin Coughlin
Are we in for more of this? Photo from January 2016 by Kevin Coughlin

Looks like someone never got the memo about spring being just around the corner.

A winter storm watch is in effect for Monday night, March 13, 2017, through Tuesday, with potential for blizzard conditions and heavy accumulations of snow, according to the National Weather Service.

winter storm watch logo“The current data suggests that we may experience 1-3 inches per hour snow rates during the pre-dawn hours through early afternoon on Tuesday, with near blizzard conditions and limited visibility possible at the height of the storm with prolonged blowing and drifting snow,” Jeff Paul of the Morris County Office of Emergency Management said in a statement on Sunday afternoon.

“At this time, the data suggests snow accumulations of 12-16 inches are likely with isolated higher amounts of 20-24 inches possible depending on where the storm sets up. The higher snow amounts have a lower confidence rating at this time. Winds will be northeast at 20-25 mph with gusts to 40-45 mph late Monday night through Tuesday,” Paul said.

Here are safety tips:

Morris County Office of Emergency Management Winter Preparedness Tips

When the winter weather hits, will your family be prepared? Winter storms bring seasonal challenges, and often result in hazardous road conditions and power outages across the County. Take the time to prepare your home, and your vehicle, for winter weather hazards. Here are some tips:

Prepare at Home: Stock up!

  • Food that doesn’t require heating or refrigeration
  • Water (1 gallon per person per day)
  • Flashlights and batteries
  • Battery powered or hand-crank radio
  • Battery powered clock
  • First Aid Kit
  • Medications and Medical Items (if necessary)
  • Cellphones with chargers
  • Pet food, water, and additional supplies
  • Baby supplies (formula, bottles, diapers, etc.)
  • Alternate heating methods (wood, coal burning stoves, etc.)
  • Warm coats, gloves or mittens, boots, and extra blankets

On the Road: Winterize your vehicle.

  • Keep the gas tank full. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.
  • Check tires for proper inflation
  • Check antifreeze

Pack emergency supplies in a backpack for a kit on-the-go:

  • Ice scraper
  • Jumper cables
  • Tire chains
  • Small shovel
  • First Aid Kit
  • Flashlight and batteries
  • Warning Flares or reflective triangle

Have a Plan. Be Prepared.

Visit www.MorrisOEM.org to learn how you can register for alerts with your local police or emergency personnel, or follow us on Facebook and Twitter (@MCUrgent).

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