Prepare Now 20260122

Winter Weather Outlook for Clinton County: Prepare for the Worst, Hope for the Best

Clinton County could see significant winter weather this weekend, followed by several days of dangerous cold. While the exact snowfall totals are still uncertain, now is the time to prepare.

We’re taking a prepare for the worst, hope for the best approach. Forecast confidence on snowfall impacts will improve by 1 PM on Friday, January 23, but residents should begin preparing Thursday and Friday.

👉 Check this link at 1 pm on Friday for the most current information: https://www.weather.gov/media/iln/ILNBriefing.pdf

Tip: See the last page for the next forecasted update time (could change). If you kept the page open on your browser, remember to refresh it!

If snow does fall, expect it to stick around. Prolonged cold temperatures next week may prevent melting, which could extend travel and service disruptions into mid-week.

What We’re Watching

Potential Heavy Snow (Saturday–Sunday, Jan 24–25)

Snow is expected to begin Saturday, with the heaviest impacts likely Saturday afternoon through Sunday. Travel conditions could become widespread and dangerous, especially in rural areas and on back roads.

Extreme Cold (Friday–Tuesday, Jan 24–27)

Confidence is high that very cold air will move into Clinton County, bringing wind chills near or below zero. This creates a high risk of frostbite and hypothermia, especially for anyone spending time outdoors or without reliable heat.

What This Means for Daily Life

Residents should plan for:

• Hazardous travel from Saturday evening through Tuesday

• Snow and ice lingering for multiple days

• High risk of cold-related injuries

• Possible delays or reduced services due to staff travel challenges

• Increased emergency calls, especially from unprepared households

• Rural travel impacts that could last through Wednesday

• A real possibility of needing to stay home for an extended period

Impacts by Community Group

Churches & Faith Organizations

Expect possible impacts to church schedules and services. Consider alternate plans and monitor updates closely.

Schools

There is a strong chance of impacts to school operations on Monday and possibly Tuesday. Families should prepare backup childcare plans.

Essential Workers

If you must travel:

• Plan routes in advance

• Check OHGO.com before leaving

• Prepare your vehicle (full tank of gas, washer fluid, warm clothing, shovel, grit or sand)

• Confirm employer reporting expectations tied to Snow Emergency Levels

Home Care Patients & Families

• Prepare for possible power outages

• Confirm emergency procedures with care providers

• Ensure medications, medical supplies, and backup plans are ready

Home Meal Deliveries & Food Support Clients

Residents who rely on home meal delivery services should prepare now for possible schedule disruptions due to hazardous road conditions and staff travel limitations.

We strongly encourage:

• Keeping several days of shelf-stable meals on hand

• Planning for delayed or missed deliveries

• Checking with your meal provider about contingency plans

• Making sure you have enough food, water, and medications to last through at least mid-week

This is especially important for older adults, homebound residents, and individuals with medical or mobility challenges.

Businesses

• Brief employees on winter reporting procedures

• Align policies with Snow Emergency Levels

• Adjust parking plans so snow contractors can plow efficiently

• Expect potential staff travel disruptions

Long-Term Care Providers

• Review winter staffing and travel plans

• Ensure residents have reliable warmth, food, fuel, and backup power

• Confirm employee reporting procedures

Public Transportation Riders

Expect route changes, schedule delays, or reduced service coverage.

Event Organizers & Attendees

Events ending Saturday evening (Jan 24) may be impacted or adjusted, depending on when snow begins and how fast it falls. Monitor event organizers closely.

Volunteer & Disaster Response Organizations

Disaster-related organizations may reach out to members for shelter staffing or assistance missions. Volunteers should prepare for possible activation.

Emergency Responders

Expect higher-than-normal service demand, particularly from households that are unprepared for prolonged cold and snow.

Rural Residents & Back-Road Travelers

Travel impacts may last through Wednesday. Plan to remain home for an extended period and only travel in emergencies.

How to Prepare Now (Thursday–Friday)

• Fill your gas tank

• Stock food, water, medications, and essentials

• Check your heating system and smoke/CO detectors

• Prepare for possible power outages

• Make a plan for pets, livestock, and vulnerable family members

• Check on neighbors who may need help

• Review your work, school, and care plans

Cold Safety Reminder

The risk of frostbite and hypothermia is high. Limit time outdoors, dress in layers, and make sure everyone in your household has a warm place to stay.

If you or someone you know needs a warm place, warming center locations are available here:👉 https://www.cc-ema.org/warming

Looking Ahead

The best timeframe for a clearer snow outlook is by 1 PM on Friday, January 23. Clinton County EMA will continue monitoring conditions and sharing updates.

Now is the time to prepare — early preparation reduces risk, stress, and emergencies later.