As noted in yesterday’s online edition, Sampson County fared very well during the weekend winter storm, with ice accumulations below what were expected and no power outages reported.
We can all breathe a sigh of relief that things weren’t worse, and at the same time, prepare for this coming weekend, where forecasts are increasingly calling for snow — and possibly lots of it.
As of the time of this writing, one forecast calls for 1 to 3 inches of snow possible Saturday and flurries again on Sunday. It’s been a long time since this area saw that much snow. On top of that, temperatures this weekend are not expected to get above freezing, with lows in the teens, making conditions dangerously cold. The National Weather Service, however, calls for a 50 percent chance of snow Saturday and sunny but cold conditions Sunday.
Either way, it’s going to be bitterly — and potentially dangerously — cold.
We urge area residents to prepare now. Even though the forecast is likely to change over the next few days, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
If winter weather does strike, and snow and/or ice accumulate this weekend, please stay off the roads if at all possible.
Crews from the Department of Transportation will likely be working around the clock to treat roadways as quickly as possible, but it is best if motorists stay off the roads except in case of an emergency. We wouldn’t advise driving around to take photos of pretty wintry scenes, unless you’ve checked NCDrive.gov and the roads are deemed clear. We know it’s tempting but please heed emergency services’ advice.
And for that matter, if you do need to go outside, be careful walking as well. You should wear shoes with good rubber traction and walk slowly, taking small steps. We’d advise using rock salt or something similar to prepare your steps, driveways and porches for the storm.
If you lose power, ensure that generators are outside and away from open windows or doors in order to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Do not burn charcoal or gas grills indoors for an alternative source of heat. If you have kerosene heaters, ensure that they are properly ventilated. Make sure your flashlights or other battery-powered lights are fully charged or have fresh batteries. Do not burn candles for light, due to the possible fire risk.
Also, try to charge your phones before the storm strikes and refrain from using them unless absolutely necessary so you don’t end up with no means of communication if there should be an emergency. If you’re snowbound, we know it’s tempting to play games on your phone to pass the time but might we recommend buying a puzzle book, reading an actual book (not an e-book), playing board games with family or perhaps reading your local newspaper cover to cover?
There are plenty more tips at readync.gov, and as always, stay tuned to The Sampson Independent’s Facebook page and website, clintonnc.com, for the latest updates during and after the storm.
Here’s hoping this one is like last weekend’s winter storm, and we dodge a bullet once again. But if not, preparing ahead of time is the best thing you can do. Stay warm and safe, readers.