Savannah Standard

The City of Savannah has declared a State of Emergency as a winter storm approaches, effective from noon on Tuesday, January 21. In response to the anticipated impacts, administrative offices and facilities were closed at noon on Tuesday and will remain closed through Wednesday, January 22. Decisions regarding Thursday operations will depend on the storm's effects. Emergency services will continue to operate.

Sanitation routes are affected by these closures. Due to Monday's holiday, residential garbage collection, recycling collection, and yard waste collection services are running one day behind schedule this week. Monday’s collection routes are being serviced today.

All residential garbage collection, recycling, yard waste collection, and street sweeping operations will be suspended on Wednesday due to the expected storm impacts. The Dean Forest Landfill and Bacon Park Convenience Center will also be closed.

Collection services will resume on Thursday, January 23 with a modified holiday schedule continuing through Saturday, January 25. Residents with Tuesday collection routes should place their refuse carts out by 7 a.m. Thursday for pickup. Wednesday routes will be collected on Friday and Thursday routes on Saturday.

The City advises residents to take several precautions during extreme winter weather:

- Protect pipes from freezing by insulating exposed pipes and allowing faucets to drip overnight.

- Protect backflow devices by covering and insulating exposed pipes.

- Stock up on essential supplies such as non-perishable food, water, medications, and household items.

- Check heating systems to ensure they are functioning properly.

- Use space heaters safely by maintaining clearance around them and following manufacturer recommendations.

- Weatherproof homes by sealing gaps around windows and doors.

- Plan for transportation delays if travel is necessary during the storm.

- Prepare vehicles by checking tire pressure, windshield wipers, antifreeze levels, and keeping gas tanks full.

- Practice roadway safety by increasing following distances in icy conditions.

- Stay informed about weather forecasts through local news or weather apps.

- Stay warm indoors during extreme temperatures.

Residents are encouraged to monitor updates from local authorities for further instructions.