Gov. Morrisey tells state residents to be prepared for looming winter storm

By RealWV staff,

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – West Virginia is under a State of Preparedness due to a winter storm that is expected to enter our region on Saturday, Jan. 24. 

Gov. Patrick Morrisey declared the State of Preparedness for all 55 counties. This storm system may cause significant impacts to travel conditions throughout the weekend, according to the National Weather Service. It may also bring heavy snowfall and the possibility of freezing rain and sleet. 

On Friday, Morrisey told the state’s residents to take the proper precautions in preparation for the storm. 

“We’re facing the potential for a very significant winter storm event,” Morrisey said. “I have issued a State of Preparedness to get all of the agencies ready, and we’ve been coordinating closely with counties, emergency management and having all of our departments ready to go as we expect to get some very difficult weather conditions.” 

Morrisey advised that any resident who needs to contact their local emergency management department, or receive other non-emergency assistance, call 2-1-1. 

“You call 2-1-1, you’re gonna be able to get the help you need,” Morrisey said. “That’s important if you’re talking about a warming center, or you want to know where the food banks and food pantries are located, or challenges coming with utilities, we think it’s critical to have that one-stop-shop in place. And, I want to let people know about that.” 

Additionally, Morrisey said that public safety officials, community organizations, local emergency management directors, FEMA, the National Weather Service, and more have been coordinating to prepare for the storm. 

“In addition to the efforts on the part of state government and local, the representatives from non-governmental voluntary and community organizations are meeting to discuss readiness in regards to food banks, shelters and crisis response plans,” Morrisey said. “If they are needed, they are going to be available.” 

Deputy Director of Emergency Management, Matthew Blackwood, provided detailed guidance for West Virginians to prepare for extreme cold, hazardous travel, and potential power disruptions. “This is about our response as a government, but also about the need for neighbors to look out for neighbors and plan ahead.”

Prepare Now (Home & Vehicle):

• Review emergency supplies including food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, and blankets.
• Review backup plans for medical equipment that requires power.
• Check that smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.
• Refill vehicle fuel and ensure approved alternative heating sources have adequate fuel and are used safely.
• Bring pets indoors and include them in emergency planning.
  

As the Storm Approaches:

• Fully charge cell phones, medical devices, and backup power supplies.
• Continue checking trusted weather forecasts and official alerts.
• Adjust travel and work plans ahead of time, avoiding unnecessary travel once conditions worsen.
• Ensure you have multiple ways to receive emergency alerts (weather radios, mobile alerts, local media).
• Check on family members, neighbors, and anyone who may need assistance, especially older adults and those with medical needs.

During and After the Storm:

• Travel should be limited to essential trips only.
• Use emergency heat sources only if properly ventilated. Never operate grills, generators, or fuel-burning devices indoors or near open windows. Generators must be operated outside, at least 20 feet away from homes.
• Take frequent breaks when shoveling snow and avoid overexertion.
• Never approach downed power lines, and report outages to utility providers.

“If you need help, reach out to that 2-1-1 number and get the assistance that you need,” Morrisey said. “It’s better to be prepared than to get stuck in a really bad place.” 

In the event of an emergency, Morrisey said to call 9-1-1. 

“This is supposed to be a pretty problematic storm,” Morrisey said. “I’ve talked to enough people to know that these are the kinds of situations that can really hurt a lot of people if you’re not prepared. And, when you have that icy cocktail that can cause power outages and when the weather is very, very cold this could be a real issue.” 

Morrisey said that if they are needed, the West Virginia National Guard will be activated. He also told West Virginians to remain vigilant as the weather event enters the region. 

“I’m going to be watching the weather and staying on top of it as much as you are,” Morrisey said. “We do urge people to exercise caution and to take care of themselves.” 

Utility Outage Contact Numbers:

Potomac Edison: 1-800-686-0011

AEP: 1-800-956-4237

Mon Power: 1-800-686-0022