PORTSMOUTH — Locals are digging out from the snowstorm that paralyzed southern Ohio Sunday and Monday. The continued burning cold continues to affect efforts and the safety of residents.
Temperatures are expected to stay below freezing until Sunday, when there will be a little movement toward a slight warming trend and a high of 34 degrees. There is a 55 percent chance of snow both Friday and Saturday.
Side note: There are 71 days until Spring!
Snow emergency
As of press deadline, Scioto County Sheriff David Thoroughman had downgraded the snow emergency to a Level 2. This means main roadways are still dangerous with blowing and drifting snow, but they are passable for those who absolutely need to be traveling. Side streets or secondary roads may still be very hazardous and covered by snow or ice. Locals should stay home if possible and avoid driving during the snow emergency.
“This winter event will be will be with us a few days due to the expected scattered snow showers and the lower temperatures. If you do not have to be on the roadways it is best to stay home. This will help our roadcrews clear the roadways,” Thoroughman said. “Driving during the winter months seems like it comes with its own set of rules. Because roads can be slick and icy, it’s best to use extreme caution when hitting the roads — just as in any type of severe weather event. “
The sheriff recommended motorists remove snow and ice from their vehicles to ensure visibiloity and prevent accidents. It will also make it easier for other motorists to see cars on the road.
Thoroughman also said motorists should:
* Slow down and increase your follow distance. It takes longer to slow down and stop on icy roads.
* Drive only during daylight hours, and avoid driving alone if you can.
* Bring blankets with you to keep warm in case you become stranded. Also bring bottled water or warm beverages, to avoid becoming dehydrated.
* -If you must travel, let someone know your destination and when you expect to arrive. Ask them to notify authorities if you are late.
* -Make sure your car is ready for winter weather by having a mechanic check it in order to prepare for a potential emergency.
* Some items that are good to have in your vehicle if you are driving during winter months: cellphone, windshield ice scraper, snow brush, flashlight with extra batteries, shovel, tow chain, traction aids (bag of sand or cat litter), and jumper cables.
Pike County Sheriff Tracy Evans has also downgraded his county’s snow emergency to a Level 2.
Warming station
The Salvation Army Portsmouth Corps, 1001 Ninth St., Portsmouth, will be open at 9 p.m. to be a warming station against the predicted bitter cold. A warming station will be operated each night this week as needed. For more information, contact Major Dan Simco at (740) 353-2400.
Hospitals
Patients who have non-emergency appointments with local hospital-affiliated offices should call ahead to confirm the offices are open and operating on schedule. Those with questions about UK King’s Daughters operations can call (606)408-8999. Those with questions about Southern Ohio Medical Center operations can call (740)356-5000.
Power outages
As of press deadline, there were six AEP Ohio customers without electricity in the South Webster area. Their power was to be restored before noon Tuesday. If you need to report an outage or check on the status of an outage, visit https://www.aepohio.com/outages/.
FLUOR-BWXT
The A-plant site schedule was slated to return to normal as of second shift Tuesday. Pike County Sheriff Tracy Evans had declared a Level 3 snow emergency during the storm and its aftermath.
Police auction
The Portsmouth Police Department is reporting that anyone who purchased vehicles at the auction Saturday, Jan. 4, have until the end of the week to pick them up.