A major snowstorm is threatening the region this weekend.
Early forecasts have as much as two feet of snow dropping on the area Saturday through Sunday. Temperatures are expected to bottom out to a mere three degrees Monday night.
Residents are already flocking to local stores to stock up. The Gordonsville Food Lion was limited on supplies Tuesday night, with both the bread and milk aisles looking sparse. A bread delivery was being put on shelves Wednesday evening.
In addition to food supplies, some are seeking out shovels, generators and ice melt. Outdoor Power Equipment in Orange had generators in stock and available Wednesday morning. EverGRO with locations in Orange and Madison said it has everything needed for this weekend’s winter weather.
Some folks have also been advertising their plow and shoveling businesses. The American Heart Association (AHA) reminds folks that cold weather can be hard on the heart. When shoveling, the AHA reminds people to take frequent breaks so as to not overstress the heart. Pay attention to how your body feels during those breaks. Also, learn the heart attack warning signs and listen to your body. Don’t drink alcohol before or immediately after shoveling. Be aware of the dangers of hypothermia–dress in warm layers and wear a hat and learn CPR. The AHA says effective bystander CPR provided immediately after sudden cardiac arrest can double or triple a victim’s chance of survival.
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone who does not need to travel during the storm to stay off the roadways. The office said it responded to approximately 20 vehicle crashes within one hour during the last snowstorm.
“Our patrol deputies are limited in number and must navigate hazardous conditions while responding to crashes in addition to normal calls for service,” the office said in a statement posted to social media. “Unnecessary travel increases crash volume and can result in extended response times during emergencies.”
The Town of Orange is asking residents to move cars to driveways or off-street parking if possible to allow for prompt clearing of streets. Residents are also reminded to not clear snow from driveways until street clearing is complete to avoid having to duplicate the effort.
The Town of Gordonsville Police Department said it will remain fully operational during the storm and will assist any resident experiencing a loss of heat due to a power outage or other emergency with transportation assistance to a warming shelter. It’s unknown at this time where the county warming shelter will be located.
Madison County officials are encouraging residents to take the storm seriously and prepare now. The National Weather Service suggests having emergency water and non-perishable food on hand, as well as a flashlight with extra batteries. Any generator or propane heater should be outside and well-ventilated to limit the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Have a fire extinguisher handy and know how to use it, as well as a first aid kit, extras of needed medicines and prescriptions and extra baby items.
The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District suggests bringing pets inside and making sure they have water. Also, the district suggests checking on neighbors and family.
