How Baldwin County is preparing for potential 'Gulf Coast Freeze'
BALDWIN COUNTY, Ala. (WKRG) – It’s not often we see a chance of snow and a big freeze here on the Gulf Coast, but when we do, agencies in Baldwin County are prepared for anything.
Cold weather preparations underway in Escambia County
“Our county highway department has already accumulated necessary sand and they have it preloaded in dump trucks,” Baldwin EMA Director Tom Tyler said. “More importantly, they keep those dump trucks in heated bays so they won’t be affected by inclement weather.”
County emergency officials told us that areas north of I-10 are typically more susceptible to winter weather conditions, but this time folks across the county need to be aware and prepare in advance.
“Bridges and overpasses, as you know, are the most treacherous places to have during any kind of winter storm event,” Tyler said. “We take very big precautions in keeping the roads open and keeping them safe.”
He told us it’s also important to make sure your home is prepped for the cold temperatures.
Supply stores like Campbell’s Hardware in Robertsdale have been busy over the past few days helping customers prepare for the cold weather.
“I’ve been here since 1948 and we probably have had a half a dozen truly cold snaps,” Nelson Wingo with Campbell’s Hardware said. “We’ve had a had a pretty busy few days here and after the freeze, we’re probably really busy in repair work.”
They said people have been stocking up on products such as pipe insulation, outdoor faucet covers, heat lamps, propane fuel, heaters and more.
And while it’s important to be prepared for anything, it’s equally as important to remain calm during any inclement weather Baldwin County may see.
Gulf Coast Freeze: Extreme Cold and Wintry Precip Possible
“I know this is a sensational event because it happens so seldom this far south, but get your information locally, don’t chase Internet rumors,” Tyler said. “If you don’t have to get out, then stay at home. Less people on the roads, means obviously fewer opportunities for bad things to happen.”
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