Winter Storm Watch Forecasts Significant Snowfall in Oxford

News Summary

A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for Oxford and Lafayette County as a major snowstorm is expected to hit the area. Predictions indicate 4 to 6 inches of snow starting Thursday night. Local officials urge residents to prepare and refrain from non-essential travel while road crews ready for the storm. School closures have yet to be announced, but emergency services are on alert for the weather’s impact. Residents are advised to stay informed and take precautions during this winter weather event.

Winter Storm Watch Looms Over Oxford and Lafayette County

As the chilly winds blow through Oxford and Lafayette County, residents are bracing for what promises to be an eventful winter storm. According to forecasts from the National Weather Service, a significant snowfall is expected to blanket the area, starting just after midnight on Thursday. Yes, you heard it right—4 to 6 inches are on the way!

Timing Is Everything!

The snow is set to kick off around the clock striking twelve, and the heaviest snowfall is forecasted to hit right around 6 a.m. on Friday and last through the early afternoon. So, if you’re a night owl, be prepared to wake up to a winter wonderland!

Stay Informed with the Winter Storm Watch

Oxford and Lafayette County will be under a Winter Storm Watch from 6 p.m. Thursday until 6 a.m. Saturday. This means that we could see some serious snow accumulation, and the local officials are ready to tackle the challenges ahead.

Planning Ahead: Road Safety and Transportation

Shane Fortner, the Emergency Management Director of Oxford, has confirmed that city road crews are gearing up for action. They’re prepping equipment and placing warning signs around town. Officials are urging residents to stay off the roads if travel isn’t essential, in order to keep everyone safe during this winter blast. For those who need to know, a road-clearing priority map is readily available online, so you can see where the crews will be focusing their efforts.

Schools and Local Services Are Watching Closely

Local schools haven’t announced any closures just yet, but they’re keeping a close eye on the situation. In the meantime, Lafayette County’s Emergency Management Director, Steve Quarles, mentioned that county road crews are all set to spread salt and rock, starting with roads that are critical for emergency responses, such as routes near fire stations.

While officials think this weather event won’t lead to major transportation issues, they’re keeping their ears to the ground and will monitor conditions closely. To stay updated, Fortner and Quarles are scheduled to meet with the University of Mississippi’s Emergency Management Team this Thursday afternoon.

First Responders Ready to Roll

In Oxford, businesses are expected to close following the storm, but Waffle House is planning to stay open to serve an emergency menu for essential workers. Meals on wheels, right? If you’re depending on local services, make note that Health Departments in Lafayette, Panola, and Yalobusha will be closed on Friday.

Transit and City Services Adjust to Conditions

For those who rely on public transportation, the Oxford-University Transit bus services will wrap up operations at 5 p.m. Thursday and will not run on Friday. Additionally, city offices that aren’t directly involved in the storm response are also planning to close on Friday. Let’s hope that the snow doesn’t stick around too long!

Trash Collection and What to Expect

Residents should note that any trash routes slated for collection on Friday will be postponed, so keep an eye on local announcements regarding rescheduling. Always better to be prepared!

As Winter Storm Preparations Ramp Up

With snow in the forecast and a Winter Storm Watch in effect, it’s the perfect time to hunker down at home, sip some hot cocoa, and keep cozy as you wait for those snowflakes to start falling! Be sure to stay safe, check in on your neighbors, and enjoy a little bit of the winter magic that is coming our way.

So there you have it, Oxford! Winter is here, and everything you need to know about this impending storm is right at your fingertips. Stay warm and safe!

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Additional Resources

• WBRC – Businesses Closed in Oxford
• Wikipedia: Winter Storm
• Oxford Eagle – Crews Ready for Snow Storm
• Google Search: Winter Storm Preparation
• Evening Sun – Winter Storm Warning
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Winter Storm
• CBS 42 – City of Oxford to Shut Non-Emergency Buildings
• Google News: Oxford Winter Storm