Orange County Officials Preparing for Winter Weather

***A Winter Storm Warning has seen issued for Chatham, Durham and Orange Counties until staring at Friday at 12:00 AM until 6:00 PM Saturday night.***

Winter weather is approaching our community and officials want residents to get prepared.

Orange County Emergency Management coordinator Kirby Saunders says crews are working to make sure precautions are in place.

“We are placing our shelters team on standby and identifying shelter sites, should they be needed,” Saunders says. “We’re also conducting some walkthroughs of school facilities that could serve as shelter locations.”

Winter Weather Cancellations and Delays

Crews with the North Carolina Department of Transportation are also working to prepare roadways for potential inclement weather.

Ryan Ellis with the National Weather Service spoke with WCHL’s Ron Stutts on Friday morning:

 

Saunders says the message for Wednesday is to allow extra time and slow down on the evening commute.

“There may be some slick spots on roadways throughout the community,” Saunders says. “Just be aware of those and allow yourself plenty of distance on the way home.”

Saunders says that forecasts are calling for more intense weather on Thursday night into Friday and that this is a good opportunity to prepare.

“Be prepared for at least 72 hours of food, water and essential medications,” Saunders advises. “And also pets, don’t forget pets.”

Saunders says residents can also take steps to prevent pipes freezing in their homes by opening cabinet doors to allow the warm air in and to leave faucets dripping to keep water from becoming stagnant and freezing.

Saunders says residents can follow emergency services on social media for real-time updates.

“We’ll post routine updates on roadway conditions or blocked roadways or downed trees or potential power outages,” Saunders says. “Also, that’s a great source of information if we were to open a shelter; we’ll definitely have that information up there.”

Saunders also recommends signing up for OC Alerts.

“You can indicate to us when you register any special needs you may have,” Saunders says, “if you need assisted-walking devices or if you’re on oxygen or have special medication requirements.

“So that if we do have a power outage, it’s easier for us to reach out to those who are most in need and try to make accommodations for them.”