THUNDER BAY, ON.  April 10, 2008 -  City of Duluth crews are on special alert as an anticipated winter storm approaches the Northland.

 

For up todate go to: http://www.weather.com/weather/local/USMN0208?x=9&lswe=Duluth&lswa=WeatherLocalUndeclared&y=6

 

A full shift of snowplowing crews will report for duty at 6:00 p.m. in anticipation of snowfall and crews will work until mandated rest periods come into effect.  (Note to media: this office will advise if and when City crews must be removed from streets for any reason, including white-out conditions.  The media’s cooperation in relaying emergency information to the public is greatly appreciated.)

 

In addition, the Duluth Fire Department will provide additional staff at outlying locations to allow for additional emergency service during storm conditions.  Four snowmobiles are available for emergency travel.  The DFD also has access to a trail groomer used by the Parks Maintenance staff, for emergency use and escort of emergency vehicles if required.

 

The Duluth Police Department will switch to all four-wheel-drive vehicles after the storm commences to allow for greater ease of response.

 

The City of Duluth asks all residents to avoid travel while the storm is in progress.  The National Weather Service estimates that snowfall will begin between 7-8 PM in the Twin Ports and conditions are expected to deteriorate very rapidly.  White-out conditions will prevent travel and will strand vehicles.

 

During the large storm in March 2007, stranded vehicles in the downtown and Park Point areas hindered snowplows and blocked access to Park Point.  In the interests of public safety, the cooperation of citizens is earnestly requested and cooperation of media in communicating this notice to citizens is greatly appreciated.

 

It is also possible that road closures, including the Aerial Bridge and access to Park Point, may be announced if conditions warrant.  Citizens are asked to be aware of this potential and to take appropriate precautions.  Vehicles abandoned in roadways will be ticketed and towed and all alternate-side and hour-restricted parking rules will be strictly enforced.

 

Crews will work Thursday and Friday on keeping main streets and thoroughfares open while the storm is in progress.  After the storm subsides, appropriate snowplowing operations will commence