Winter Storm Fern
Winter Storm Fern – Community Preparedness Notice
Winter Storm Fern is now forecasted to bring a high-impact mix of heavy snow and potentially significant ice to our area this weekend. Some projections indicate the possibility of over a foot of snow in parts of the region, or enough ice to create dangerous travel conditions and power outages.
Town staff are preparing, and Public Works and the Montreat Police Department will be working around the clock throughout the storm to respond to conditions and emergencies as quickly as possible.
We strongly encourage residents to stay off the roads during the storm. Road conditions may deteriorate rapidly, and limiting travel helps keep you safe and allows emergency crews and utility workers to do their jobs.
Please prepare early, and remember—you don’t have to figure this out alone.
What to have ready before the storm arrives:
Heat & warmth: Extra blankets, warm clothing, and one “warm room” to stay in if the power goes out
Light & power: Flashlights (not candles), fresh batteries, fully charged phones, and charged battery packs
Food & water: Easy-to-eat, no-cook items and bottled water; don’t forget a manual can opener
Medicines & health: Refill prescriptions now; keep a written list of medications and a small first-aid kit
Safety at home: If using a fireplace, use a glass or metal fire screen large enough to catch sparks and rolling logs. Run water, even at a trickle, to help prevent pipes from freezing. Open the kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warmer air to circulate around the plumbing. Keep garage doors closed. Wind is often the culprit causing frozen pipes. Hoses that are still connected to hose bibs can cause the pipes to break, so unscrew hoses from the hose outlets.
Generators: If you use one, operate it outdoors only, never in a garage or enclosed space
If the power goes out:
Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible
Use flashlights instead of candles
Check on a neighbor if you’re able, especially anyone who lives alone or may need assistance
We will share updates as conditions change. Thank you for helping keep yourself, your neighbors, and our community safe.
