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Savannah Declares State of Emergency for Winter Weather

A rare snowfall transforms Savannah into a winter wonderland, prompting a State of Emergency.

News Summary

Savannah has declared a State of Emergency in anticipation of severe winter weather expected to impact the region. Mayor Van Johnson urges residents to limit travel as conditions are expected to worsen. Emergency crews are mobilized, and a warming shelter will be opened for those in need. The anticipated weather includes the first measurable snowfall in over seven years, raising concerns about road safety and preparedness in a city more accustomed to hurricanes. Officials are coordinating response efforts and advising caution for all residents.

Savannah has declared a State of Emergency effective at noon on Tuesday in anticipation of severe winter weather expected to hit the region. Mayor Van Johnson has advised residents to limit travel as conditions are likely to worsen from overnight into Wednesday.

In preparation for the storm, crews have mobilized equipment, including excavators and sand trucks, at the Floyd Adams, Jr. Administrative Complex. Meanwhile, the Georgia Department of Transportation has taken proactive steps by pre-treating several major state roadways in Savannah to mitigate hazardous conditions.

Local crews are also on standby to address side streets and lesser traveled roads as necessary during the storm. The National Weather Service has indicated that Savannah could see its first measurable snowfall in over seven years, raising concerns about the city’s preparedness given that it is more accustomed to handling hurricanes and tropical storms.

In response to the expected cold weather, a warming shelter will be opened at the Tompkins Regional Center, located at 2333 Ogeechee Road, starting at 3 p.m. on Tuesday. This initiative comes after the shelter reached capacity on Monday as many residents sought refuge from the chilly temperatures ahead of the anticipated snowfall.

Potential weather hazards include freezing rain, which may create dangerous road conditions. Savannah’s emergency operations center will begin 24-hour operations on Tuesday to coordinate response efforts and ensure public safety. Local officials are emphasizing the importance of heeding travel advisories as the storm approaches.

Weather forecasts indicate that significant temperature drops and icy conditions could lead to traffic disruptions, posing risks for vehicles on both major highways and local streets. The city encourages all residents to stay updated on the latest weather information and to exercise caution in the days ahead.

The declaration of a State of Emergency allows for the mobilization of local and state resources to assist during the storm. As emergency crews prepare to respond, Mayor Johnson has reiterated the need for community cooperation to ensure the safety of all citizens.

Historically, winter weather events in Savannah are not common; this potential snowfall is the first significant winter weather event for the area in many years. Thus, local agencies are taking extensive measures to ensure that they are ready to address challenges presented by snow and ice accumulation.

City leaders are advising residents to remain vigilant and to follow public safety instructions as forecasts for the winter weather evolve. As Savannah braces for its potential encounter with winter weather, officials are committed to keeping the public informed and prepared for a range of weather conditions.