Lowndes County urges residents to prepare for winter

Kasmira Smith, The Valdosta Daily Times, Ga.
·2 min read

Nov. 29—VALDOSTA — Lowndes County is urging residents to prepare for the upcoming winter weather in the Winter Preparedness Week scheduled Dec. 4 to 8.

Lowndes County's efforts are in partnership with the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency's Ready Georgia campaign. Both agencies are encouraging citizens to take time to prepare for possible inclement weather emergencies this winter, according to a press release Wednesday morning.

"Winter Weather Preparedness Week is a great time for all Lowndes County residents and businesses to prepare for all potential winter hazards," Ashley Tye, Lowndes County Emergency Management Director, said. "Since winter weather can be unpredictable, we're hopeful these plans and education on potentially dangerous storms encourage residents to prepare for severe winter weather."

Winter Weather Preparedness Week was created to raise awareness of winter weather hazards and reinforce understanding of winter weather terminology such as the difference between a winter storm watch, winter weather advisory or winter storm warning.

Lowndes County and GEMA/HS will provide information to assist Georgia residents in preparing for winter weather throughout the week.

Each day concentrates on a different aspect of winter weather. The focus for each day is as follows:

Monday, Dec. 4: Winter Weather in Georgia — learn about winter weather hazards that can impact the state of Georgia.

Tuesday, Dec. 5: Winter Weather Terminology — learn about winter weather "alerts" (watches, warnings and advisories) and what they mean.

Wednesday, Dec. 6: Winter Weather Preparation Tips — learn how to best prepare for winter weather events, and put together a "Ready Kit" while making a plan before winter weather strikes.

Thursday, Dec. 7: Winter Weather Driving Tips/Safety — learn "best practices" for driving (if necessary) in winter weather conditions and how to pack a mobile "Ready Kit."

Friday, Dec. 8: Winter Weather Outlook for 2023-24 season — resources for learning where and how to stay informed of weather forecasts.

Guides of preparing emergency plans for your home, children or business can be found by visiting gema.georgia.gov/plan-prepare/ready-georgia to learn more.