The National Weather Service issued a winter storm watch for Monroe County starting at 10 a.m. Jan. 24 and lasting until 7 p.m. Jan. 25 due to heavy snow and freezing rain predicted in the area.
According to the NWS, a winter storm watch means severe weather is possible within 48 hours. A winter storm warning would mean a severe storm is imminent, very likely or currently happening.
Bloomington is predicted to receive anywhere from 4-7 inches of heavy snow, the NWS predicted. Temperatures are predicted to fall as low as 12 degrees Saturday night and 2 degrees Sunday night.
Between 175 and 185 million people in the United States were under some sort of winter weather advisory as of early Thursday, according to Brian Hurley, a meteorologist at the NWS Weather Prediction Center.
Monroe County Emergency Management said in a Facebook post that any pre-road treatment done before the storm may not be as effective due to cold temperatures. The NWS suggested people consider delaying travel and driving with extreme caution if necessary, including carrying a winter storm kit with items like tire chains, booster cables, flashlights, a shovel, blankets, extra clothing, water and a first aid kit.
The Bloomington Severe Emergency Winter Shelter hosts emergency shelters at locations around Bloomington during severe winter weather. Updates on the current shelter locations can be found on its Facebook page.
