The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Storm Warning and a Cold Weather Advisory for Statesboro and Bulloch County on Monday, January 20, 2025, urging residents to prepare for hazardous conditions.
The Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 5 PM Tuesday to noon EST Wednesday. The NWS forecasts heavy snow with total accumulations of up to two inches. This could make roads, especially bridges and overpasses, slick and hazardous, impacting the Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning commutes.
The NWS advises residents to plan for slippery road conditions and consider delaying all travel. If travel is absolutely necessary, drivers are urged to exercise extreme caution and consider packing a winter storm kit with items such as booster cables, a flashlight, shovel, blankets, extra clothing, water, and a first aid kit.
In addition to the snow, a Cold Weather Advisory is now in effect until 6 PM EST Wednesday. Very cold wind chills are expected, ranging from 10 to 20 degrees tonight and 10 to 15 degrees above zero Tuesday night. These conditions pose a risk of frostbite and hypothermia with prolonged exposure to unprotected skin. Daytime highs will struggle to reach the upper 30s to around 40 degrees Tuesday and the mid to upper 30s Wednesday, with overnight lows dropping into the 20s both tonight and Tuesday night.
The NWS urges residents to take precautions against the cold. When venturing outside, wear appropriate clothing, including a hat and gloves. They also advise making frequent checks on older family, friends, and neighbors. Those using portable heaters should ensure they are used correctly and should never use generators or grills inside.
The NWS recommends having an extra flashlight, food, and water in vehicles in case of an emergency.
For the latest road conditions, residents can call 511. They also advise staying indoors until conditions improve and dressing in layers if going outside. Covering exposed skin is crucial to reduce the risk of frostbite or hypothermia.
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Bulloch VOAD Warming Shelter to Provide Refuge
The Bulloch VOAD warming shelter at Pittman Park UMC will offer a safe haven for residents seeking relief from the cold. The shelter will provide warmth, food, and essential supplies. Currently, the shelter is scheduled to open at 5 PM Monday. The doors will stay open until 10 PM. No readmittance after 10 PM. All guests must be inside before the doors are locked.They will decide daily if there is a need to remain open and the hours of operation.
Support shelter efforts
If you would like to help support the warming shelter and other potential relief efforts from the winter storm you can give now to Bulloch Strong. All contributions will remain in our community to support disaster efforts. Click here to contribute now.
Code Red Alert
The City of Statesboro and Bulloch County announce a partnership to implement the CodeRED system, a high-speed emergency notification service provided by OnSolve, based in Ormond Beach, Florida. Public safety officials across the United States have credited CodeRED notifications for saving lives, including locating missing children, apprehending wanted criminals, and issuing timely evacuations. Click here to add this to your phone now.
Stay Informed and Monitor Weather Forecasts
Closely monitor weather forecasts for the latest updates and warnings. Grice Connect or wherever you get ocal news outlets and the National Weather Service website are excellent resources for staying informed. By planning and taking precautions now, residents can stay safe during this period of dangerously cold temperatures.
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Residents should remain vigilant as weather forecasts evolve in the coming days. For more updates, follow Grice Connect for the latest local developments and resources.