Atlantic County officials urge residents to take advantage of the calm before the storm to prepare for the potential of significant snow accumulation beginning Friday evening through Saturday.
Atlantic County is under a Winter Storm Watch issued by the National Weather Service earlier this morning and in effect through 7 p.m. on Saturday with the possibility of 6-12 inches of snow and wind gusts of up to 45 miles-per-hour that could lead to blowing snow and low visibility for motorists.
While there remains some uncertainty about the amount of snow accumulation, there appears to be little doubt that the storm will impact our area.
Atlantic County officials are closely monitoring the storm and recommend the public do the same as well as taking steps to prepare such as charging electronic devices, fueling/charging vehicles and topping off windshield wash fluid, having sufficient supplies of necessary medications and items for infants and pets, checking on the elderly and infirm, and checking and replenishing disaster supplies.
Residents should also consider registering with the county's Emergency Notification System to receive emergency weather alerts by text or email. This free service is available to residents, businesses and second homeowners. Visit https://readyatlantic.org/stay/com_notification.asp to learn more.
Those in need of assistance during the storm should contact their local office of emergency management. Contacts numbers are available on www.ReadyAtlantic.org, the county's emergency information and resource web site, and in the phone book. Life threatening emergencies should be reported immediately to 9-1-1.
Motorists are urged to avoid travel during the storm but if they must go out, to exercise caution and to stay well behind salt trucks and snow plows. Snow must be removed from vehicles before traveling, according to state law. When shoveling driveways, place snow on the down side of the street, to the left of the driveway when facing it from the road.
Atlantic County road crews will clear the major county roadways first. Due to some staffing shortages, crews may not be at full strength. Officials ask the public to be patient while resources are deployed.
For more storm preparation information visit: www.readyatlantic.org/prepare/winter.asp
