EASTON — Chief Justin Alexander and the Easton Fire Department would like to share information regarding preparations and safety ahead of this weekend’s expected major winter storm.
At this time, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Storm Watch to include eastern Massachusetts for Saturday, Jan. 29 as the storm is expected to impact the area beginning overnight Friday into Saturday. A Winter Storm Watch indicates that conditions are favorable for a significant winter storm.
The most recent forecast indicates that snow accumulations of as many as 20 inches are possible, with wind gusts potentially approaching 65 miles per hour. Travel conditions are expected to be hazardous, and strong winds could cause tree and property damage. Power outages and blizzard conditions are possible in some areas.
Residents are reminded that this forecast will continue to evolve and the associated watches and warnings can change quickly and at any point. Residents are urged to closely monitor the local forecast throughout the coming days.
Preparations
Town officials continue to monitor the storm and receive information from the NWS through the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency, and are prepared to open a local warming shelter should the need arise. Equipment and staff are being staged locally in the event a shelter is needed.
Residents are encouraged to begin their own preparations for this weekend’s storm, including filling their vehicle’s gas tank, checking and replenishing their emergency kit, and ensuring warm clothes are handy. Additionally, if you have alternative heating sources, such as fireplaces, wood- or coal-burning stoves, or space heaters, be sure they are clean and in working order, and be sure you have ample heating fuel.
Residents should plan to stay off the roads and stay indoors, if possible, for much of the weekend in order to give plow and sand/salt trucks the time and space they need to operate.
Stay Informed
Residents are encouraged to monitor the following town sources for ongoing updates regarding the storm and local available resources:
- Easton Fire Department Facebook and Twitter
- Town of Easton Facebook and Twitter
- Easton Police Department Facebook and Twitter
- Plymouth Bristol Emergency Alert System – CodeRed
Additional updates will be shared as the winter storm nears.
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