A Blizzard Warning is issued when sustained winds or frequent gusts over 35 mph are expected with considerable falling and/or blowing and drifting snow. Visibilities will become poor with Whiteout conditions at times. Those venturing outdoors may become lost or disoriented, so persons in the warning area are advised to stay indoors.

All unnecessary travel is discouraged beginning Monday afternoon. To allow people already on the road to safely reach their destination before the heavy snow begins, and to allow snow removal equipment to begin to clear roads.

Storm Safety Tips:

• Check your supplies.
• Make sure you have a snow shovel and ice melt to keep walkways clear and safe.
• Check that you have sufficient heating fuel for your home and fuel for your generator, if you have one.
• If you will be using a fireplace or wood-burning stove, you should have a good supply of dry, seasoned wood.
• Have warm clothing and blankets on hand and stock non-perishable food items and necessary medications to last you and your family several days.
• Get ready for a power outage. Turn your heat up now and close off any rooms that are not in use.
• Check pipe insulation and allow water to run at a trickle to prevent pipes from freezing.
• Charge your battery-powered electronic and communications devices.
• Get out your flashlights, batteries, first aid kit and other emergency supplies.
• Don’t drive or go out unless absolutely necessary.
• Test all of your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they work properly.
• Do not let candles burn unattended, and keep them away from combustibles.
• Check on your elderly or disabled neighbors, friends and families.
• Enjoy your family! Sometimes storms render the best family time memories.