Round Two: Southeast Nebraska Gets More Winter, Dangerous Wind Chills

By Gordon HopkinsSoutheast Nebraska was still digging out from the first winter storm of the new year, when weather services announced more snow on the way, along with dangerously low temperatures.The first storm hit hard Monday morning, January 8, 2024, bringing heavy, wet snow that made for dangerous driving conditions and led to the cancellation of schools and meetings as well as the closure of many businesses and government buildings alike.Norris Public Power District faced numerous power outages throughout the area.Multiple cities and villages issued snow emergencies, including Fairbury.Fairbury Mayor Spencer Brown issued a statement on Facebook ahead of the anticipated snow on Thursday, January 11, “Hope everyone would echo a big Thank You to everyone in the city's Streets, Line, Water and Sanitation departments that put in the extra effort to get snow moved and cleaned off the streets. Working together as a team made quick work over one of the heaviest snow falls we have had in a long time. We appreciate it, Thanks!”While people were advised to stay home it at all possible, work crews were out in force to clear as many roads as possible. It is hard and sometimes dangerous work, as evidence when one Jefferson County worker was injured on the job.Gale Pohlmann, Jefferson County Commission chairperson, used a statement Wednesday, January 10, “On behalf of the Commissioners and the Highway Department I would like to mention that our highway crews are doing their best to get the roads opened up. Yesterday we had many challenges as operators were getting stuck and needing assistance from another operator which reduces efficiency. This was a heavy wet snow covering every inch of the roadway requiring more time for removal. We’ve experience breakdowns, responded to medical emergencies and numerous phone calls. The winds have caused continual drifting, and unfortunately one of our operators sustained serious injuries assisting another operator. Some of our operators worked late last night, and started again early this morning. We are doing are best and ask that you please be patient with us.”Pohlmann also warned, “Finally with the upcoming forecast of more snow, windy conditions, and bitterly cold temperatures later this week, please be prepared for similar road conditions as we have experienced with this last storm. Again please be patient. Our crews will continue to do their best, but we do have to keep safety in mind for them also. Thank you.”The National Weather Service issued another winter storm warning as well as a windchill advisory for the area on Thursday, and warned the worst wind chills likely Sunday morning, January 14, as low as -50.

Local Incumbents Face Challengers

Richard (Rick) D. Haskell

Related Articles

Fairbury Cemetery Association Ready To Start Phase II Of Road Project

The Cost Of Cleanup

Truancy Declines Since Attendance Support Program Began

David Lottman Is May Veteran Of The Month