Storm Preparations Underway in Houston County

WARNER ROBINS, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – A group of the most essential members of Houston County’s government agencies and private companies gathered for a briefing by the National Weather Service. Houston County Emergency Management Director, Jimmy Williams, said the purpose for the meeting was to inform them of how they will be impacted by the second round of winter storms.

Williams admitted he is worried about what will actually happen when the freezing temperatures hit the area.

“The ice will be the only thing that is a concern to me,” says Williams. “Having black ice on the roads hopefully, we’ll make the correct decision and most people will be able to stay off the roadways.”

Another major concern for the Houston County Emergency Management Director is how business owners will respond to consumers.

“Businesses need to be mindful of price gouging,” said Williams. “Gas prices do not need to go up, milk does not need to go up. So all these things are in place, once you’re in a state of emergency.”

Warner Robins Public Works Director, George Brannen says his agency is planning to work 24 hours around the clock. In fact, they are planning to pre-treat roads.

“It alleviates some of the problems,” said Brannen. “We don’t want to get like Atlanta and get everybody stuck out there at one time and not be able to get the trucks out.”

Roadways that are designated as “high priority” include Russell Parkway, an overpass at Robins Air Force Base and every street surrounding the Houston Medical Center.

Willams says he does not want residents to panic once the storm hits.

 “Just remain calm, use common sense and stay home if you don’t need to be out .”