City of St. Louis Outlines Preparations for Possible Winter Storm

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As the National Weather Service (NWS) declares a Winter Storm Warning for our region beginning Tuesday, January 24, the City of St. Louis is joining the NWS to urge residents to take precautions and preventive measures to protect themselves and their families during and after the storm. The warning predicts approximately 4-7 inches of snow and temperatures in the mid 20's. In the face of potentially hazardous conditions, residents should consider adjusting travel plans, and follow local media, the City's website and City Emergency Management (CEMA) social media alerts for information, resources and updates. Residents should also sign up for the City's emergency weather alerts from NotifySTL by registering on the city's website.

"We urge everyone to plan ahead to keep your loved ones safe," said CEMA Commissioner Sarah Russell. "For those who must travel, take extra precautions. Stay alert and follow local media, the City's website, and CEMA for important updates."

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City of St. Louis Streets Department anticipates wet, slushy conditions on the roads this week, rendering pretreatment or salting ineffective. Crews will begin plowing starting at midnight on Wednesday morning and throughout the snow event to keep streets clear. A list of St. Louis' 450 linear miles of snow routes can be found on the city's website, and residents are urged to avoid parking on snow routes. The City will prioritize plowing and treatment on main arterials, followed by secondary snow routes.

"Drivers should take extra care during storms navigating slick wet roads and remember to slow down," said Streets Commissioner Kent Flake. "Crews are ready to work to keep city streets clear and safe for residents, so if you do not need to be on the roads, please avoid driving to give them the space they need to work.

The City joins the NWS St. Louis in recommending commuters begin any travel with a full tank of gas and carry a winter storm kit which includes a shovel, flashlight, cellphone, food and water, blankets, and extra warm clothing. Plan for a slower-than-normal trip. Be extremely cautious when approaching bridges, exit ramps, overpasses, and curves in the road. In Missouri, call 1-888-275-6636 or use the MODOT Travelers Map mobile app for state road information.

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Snow on tree limbs and may down power lines and could cause sporadic power outages. Residents should avoid any downed power lines and report them to the Ameren Missouri at 800-552-7583. Ameren also encourages area residents to sign up for alerts by texting REG to AMEREN (263736). City residents can report downed trees or limbs, as well as other service requests to the Citizens Service Bureau at 314.622.4800 or online via the City's website.

The expected heavy snow accumulation can also create health hazards, including exhaustion, dehydration, back injuries, or heart attacks. "Residents should be cautious while clearing walkways and driveways," says Justen Hauser, Chief of the Department of Health's Environmental Health Services Bureau. "If you must shovel snow, stretch beforehand, take frequent breaks and lift small amounts of snow at one time."

This year the City of St. Louis Department of Human Services (DHS) has ensured that all City-funded shelters operate 24/7. Those in need of shelter or who see someone in need can call 2-1-1 to be connected to available resources. A list of daytime warming centers can be found on the City's website or by calling 2-1-1.

Area seniors, people with physical disabilities, and low-income families who cannot afford to pay their winter heating bills may qualify for help through Heatupstlouis.org, a regional charity serving as a safety net providing utility assistance to those in need. To qualify, visit heatupstlouis.org or call 314-241-0001.

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