Schools across Sheboygan County have announced classes are cancelled today as a winter storm bears down on the area. Sheboygan Area School District, Plymouth, Sheboygan Falls, Oostburg, Cedar Grove, Random Lake, Kohler, Elkhart Lake-Glenbeulah and Howards Grove all made the decision last night hours after the National Weather Service issued the Winter Storm Warning that will remain in effect until 6 a.m. Saturday. Many of those decisions, especially in the rural areas, are made by those charged with driving the buses that get the kids to and from school. Getting to school might not be a problem…getting them home again would be another story, and that’s a risk nobody wants to take.
While the expected snowfall amounts might not be overwhelming, the combination of the snow that does fall along with plummeting temperatures and powerful winds that will push wind chill factors to between 25 and 30 below zero are of high concern.
Most of the Sheboygan and surrounding areas received a light, icy coating last night, and a quick shot of snow early this morning, but the “main event” is forecast to be a midday to nighttime event leaving us with several inches by dark when winds will begin to pick up, eventually reaching gust levels that could surpass 50 miles an hour. Any snow will then be lifted, creating occasional whiteout conditions and making travel difficult, if not impossible. Because of that, the State DOT is advising that you should only leave home if you absolutely have to. Anyone who does have to travel should have an emergency kit with water, some food, warm clothing and blankets and fully charged devices along with a set of jumper cables. One big issue – with a storm this large the DOT is concerned that even emergency vehicles would have a hard time getting to you if you need help so, and first responders would also be put in danger, so it’s best to stay off the roads.
The one bright note may be the timing that could possibly allow some Christmas observances to go ahead by Saturday night or Sunday.
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