MERCER COUNTY, W. Va. -Winter has hit West Virginia, bringing slick roads and cold temperatures. But even before the state of emergency was declared, local governments were ready to strike back, thanks to preparations put in place before the first flake fell.
Mercer County Emergency Management Director, Keith Gunnoe, says a state of emergency allows them to prepare for worst-case scenarios. However, Gunnoe says the fight isn’t over yet, with accidents still happening despite preparations.
“…We see… common emergencies that happen, such as what’s going on right now with the radio behind me. There’s already eight or ten car wrecks in the county in the last thirty minutes, since the snow started sticking to the road… My biggest concern typically in cold weather events like this is power outages long-term,” says Gunnoe.
Luckily, Gunnoe says he doesn’t expect a large-scale power outage, but spotty outages are still a concern. And while the roads may still be dangerous, they are being cleared, thanks to the Department of Highways and local municipalities.
The City of Bluefield’s Public Works department has around six plow trucks working twenty-four hours a day until the snow is cleared. We asked David Lester, park superintendent for the City of Bluefield, how prepared he believes the City is for this weather emergency.
“…From zero to ten, I’d think we’re an eight. I think we’re prepared. There’s quite a few of us that’s been plowing for the City of Bluefield for quite a few years now… …This is nothing new for us… We live in the mountains… We deal with the snow. That’s what we do.”
Lester adds that they are prioritizing Bluefield’s main arteries but will work to clear the side roads after. Both Gunnoe and Lester say the best thing you can do right now is to stay home if possible to both stay safe and let the trucks do what they need to do to treat the roads.
Lester says Bluefield residents who want to contact the City about having a road cleared should download the Fix it Bluefield app. Gunnoe encourages people to keep the community and those working out in the cold in your prayers during this winter emergency.
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