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Chattanooga Faces Snow and Cold Temperatures

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HERE Chattanooga

Snow covered houses and trees in Chattanooga

News Summary

Chattanooga has experienced significant snowfall and frigid temperatures, leading to school delays, transportation advisories, and power usage alerts. Hamilton County Schools announced a two-hour delay due to icy conditions, and residents are urged to limit travel. The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency is monitoring the situation closely while local organizations suspend operations. To manage energy demand during this cold snap, residents are advised to be mindful of their power usage. In light of the weather, garbage collection has also been delayed, reminding everyone of the unpredictable winter conditions.

Winter Wonderland or Travel Nightmare? Chattanooga Faces Snow and Cold Temperatures

Chattanooga woke up on Wednesday to a beautiful blanket of snow, but don’t let the cozy winter vibes fool you! The snow brought with it a series of unexpected cancellations and delays for schools and various organizations in the area. It’s that time of year when the weather truly keeps everyone on their toes!

School Schedules Shaken Up

Hamilton County Schools have announced a two-hour delay for Thursday, allowing a little extra time for students and staff to make their way to school safely. While road conditions seemed manageable at first glance, school officials are cautioning everyone to be on the lookout for black ice as temperatures are expected to continue dropping. Better safe than sorry!

For those relying on School-Age Child Care (SACC) services, there’s good news. The SACC sites will open at 7:30 a.m., so parents can continue with their workday knowing their kids are taken care of. School officials will be monitoring the situation closely and will provide updates by 6 a.m. regarding any possible closures. So keep an ear out for those early morning alerts!

Snowfall and Forecast

The snowfall may have looked stunning in the mountains, with several inches reported on the peaks, but don’t expect the same level of accumulation in the valleys. As the temperature takes a plunge, hitting lows of around 15 degrees on Thursday and barely creeping up to 24 degrees by Friday, residents are reminded to bundle up tight!

Power Usage Alert

In a related note, EPB has asked its customers to be mindful of their power usage between Thursday and Friday, specifically from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. Eastern Time. This request comes from TVA and is aimed at managing the increased energy demand during this cold snap. Residents are encouraged to turn down the heat a notch, finish up any laundry, wash that pile of dishes, and turn off lights and electronics that aren’t needed.

State and Local Responses

The weather has had a significant impact far beyond schools, as several organizations, including universities, closed their doors on Wednesday. In response to the hazardous travel conditions brought about by the winter storm, Governor Bill Lee has issued a closure for state offices across Tennessee’s West, Middle, and East Grand Divisions. However, online state services will remain available for essential tasks.

Meanwhile, the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) is actively keeping a watchful eye on weather forecasts, working alongside local and state partners to ensure safety is a top priority. Communications are crucial during this chilly period!

Transportation Advisory

The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) is also stepping up to address the icy situation. They are out pre-treating interstates and state routes, encouraging residents to consider limiting non-essential travel during this wintry ordeal. Sometimes a warm cup of hot cocoa at home is more inviting than braving the roads!

City Services Impacted

Finally, a quick heads-up for city residents regarding garbage and recycling services: the City of Chattanooga’s Public Works Department has announced a one-day delay in collection due to the accumulation of snow. So hang tight, and that trash won’t be forgotten for long!

As always in Chattanooga, weather can be unpredictable. Stay warm, stay safe, and keep an eye out for those weather updates as the winter season continues to unfold. Snow or no snow, the community spirit always shines bright!