Savannah Standard

The City of Savannah has announced a State of Emergency starting at noon on Tuesday, January 21, due to the expected effects of an incoming winter storm. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Chatham County from Monday afternoon through Wednesday. Forecasts predict near-record low temperatures and possible snow or sleet accumulation.

City administrative offices will close at noon on Tuesday and remain closed all day Wednesday. Thursday's operations will be determined based on the storm's impact. Emergency services will continue to operate.

An Incident Management Team has been activated, and the Emergency Operations Center will operate 24 hours starting Tuesday. A warming center is available at Tompkins Regional Center for those in need of shelter.

Sanitation services are affected by these closures, with adjustments made to collection schedules. Live Oak Public Libraries will also close their locations on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Residents are advised to take precautions such as protecting pipes from freezing, stocking up on essential supplies, checking heating systems, using space heaters safely, weatherproofing homes, planning for transportation delays, preparing vehicles for travel conditions, and staying informed about weather updates.

The City emphasizes the importance of staying warm during extreme temperatures by remaining indoors when possible and dressing appropriately when outside.