Grab your snow shovels and a warm jacket.
The first winter storm of the season could hit Cass and surrounding counties Sunday night. A storm watch has been scheduled from Sunday night until roughly 7 p.m. Monday evening.
The National Weather Service predicts a total of 3 to 6 inches of snow accumulation. Along with the snow, the NWS predicts wind gusts to reach 20-25 mph, which would blow the snow around.
If the storm hits — there’s a chance it will stay in Central Indiana instead — residents should prepare for longer commutes on Monday. Roads will be slippery and the wind could re-cover streets with snow and reduce visability.
Rocky Buffum, director of Cass County Emergency Management Agency, warned residents should keep an eye out for a travel advisory, watch or warning. The Indiana Department of Homeland Security posts advisories online at www.in.gov/dhs/travel-advisory-map/.
Local updates will also be posted on the agency’s Facebook page, “Cass County Emergency Management Agency – Indiana.” Other than being posted to Facebook, travel advisories will be sent to local news organizations to help spread the word.
Buffum offered a handful of safety tips for travelers:
* Always wear a seat belt.
* Slow down. Slower speeds, slower acceleration, slower steering and slower braking all are required in winter driving conditions.
* Drop it and drive. Put down the handheld devices.
* Don’t crowd the plow. A snowplow operator’s field of vision is restricted. You may see them, but they may not see you.
* Avoid using cruise control in snow and ice.
* Watch out for black ice on roads that appear clear but can be treacherous. Be especially careful approaching intersections, ramps, bridges and shady areas. All are prone to icing.
* Do not travel during bad weather unless absolutely necessary. If you do have to make a trip, check the forecast and make sure someone is aware of your travel route.
* Prepare an emergency kit that contains jumper cables, flares or reflectors, windshield washer fluid, a small ice scraper, traction material, blankets, non-perishable food and a first-aid kit.
* Carry a cell phone and a car charger in case of emergency.
* Slow down and move over for stopped emergency, construction and maintenance vehicles.
He added Cass County EMA has been in contact with Government and nonprofit agencies to develop a plan in case shelters need to be opened or they need to find a path to homes that are difficult to reach.
“Cass County is a great community. Everybody wants to help,” Buffum said. “We’ve got lots of good feedback and people that want to pitch in.”
Other than travel, Buffum recommended residents make sure they have enough groceries to get through the next few days, and to check on elderly neighbors or neighbors with mobility issues.