Governor Chris Sununu, Emergency Management Officials Prepare for Impending Winter Storm

Concord, NH - As a winter storm is approaching and is expected to bring significant snowfall and dangerous travel conditions, Governor Chris Sununu and state emergency management officials are working with local communities and utilities companies on preparedness efforts.

"As another winter storm approaches the region that is expected to bring significant snowfall beginning this afternoon, we have been working closely with state emergency management officials to coordinate preparedness efforts with local communities and utility companies," said Governor Chris Sununu. "We are monitoring the storm's path and will provide updates throughout the evening and into tomorrow as needed. While I recommend that folks stay off the roads if they are able to during the high points of the storm, I encourage those who must travel to use common sense, plan ahead for challenging conditions and exercise extreme caution."

Governor Sununu has been in contact with emergency management officials in advance of the storm and will be receiving updates throughout the day and evening. State leaders will meet by conference call this afternoon to ensure preparedness. The State Emergency Operations Center will open at 2:00 PM.

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for the entire State and predicts 12 to 18 inches of wet, heavy snow for much of the State with the greatest snowfall in southern and central New Hampshire. Snowfall rates of 1 to 3 inches per hour will create low visibility and slick conditions this afternoon and tonight. Wind gusts of 20 to 30 mph are expected to cause scattered power outages and blizzard like conditions. Additionally, splash over and erosion along the seacoast will create hazardous conditions Thursday morning, including debris hidden on snow covered roads.

The Department of Safety is encouraging New Hampshire residents to limit travel during the storm, if possible, and to take the following precautions:

• Leave extra time to get to destinations.
• Allow safe driving distances between vehicles.
• Anticipate reduced speeds.
• Keep vehicle fuel tanks at least half full.
• Avoid travel along the immediate seacoast as additional erosion and splash over will create snow covered, hidden debris Thursday morning.

Additional information, including safety and preparedness tips, is available at www.readynh.gov.