VALDOSTA, GA – In anticipation for the severe winter storm today and tomorrow, the City of Valdosta is taking some necessary precautions and urging citizens to take similar precautions in their homes and businesses, as well.
Due to Valdosta’s geographic location and topography, the city rarely experiences severe winter storms that produce ice and snow. The combination of rain and freezing temperatures makes it especially important for those not familiar to driving in these conditions to stay off the roads as much as possible for their safety and the safety of others. The Valdosta Police Department asks that citizens avoid traveling on city streets until the weather passes. If driving is necessary, citizens are urged to slow down, allow extra time to get to their destinations, and pay extra attention to crossing over bridges as they freeze quicker than roadways.
City departments are protecting public property for the drop in temperature by turning on outside spigots to keep water running so exposed water lines do not break; making sure city’s backflow devices are insulated and covered; draining water lines on some equipment that will not be running to prevent bursting; turning off exposed equipment to prevent icing; and other precautions normally taken when freezing conditions are expected. City employees have been briefed on safety measures associated with the impending weather conditions.
The city’s Engineering Department is prepared to respond to the effects of the severe weather and is monitoring the situation for localized flooding or drainage problems. The Public Works Department is prepared to spread a salt and sand mixture on bridges and other streets to prevent slick roadways, if necessary. Crew will be on standby to respond to traffic concerns as they arise and to monitor the safety of the city to keep the roads safe.
Citizens should expect some delays in some city services, such as sanitation services, today and tomorrow or until conditions improve.
Citizens are urged to prepare their pipes for the drop in temperature. Click here for some winterizing tips. Citizens should also be prepared for power outages, or anything else associated with severe weather conditions.
For additional information, click here to view Lowndes County Emergency Management release posted to the city’s website. Any updates to local conditions may be found at www.valdostacity.com or on Metro Valdosta 17 on Mediacom.
Source: City of Valdosta Press Release
