The Cumberland Plateau is getting ready for a major winter storm beginning Sunday night (tonight).  Forecasters are predicting up to 6 inches of snowfall overnight and Monday.  And if that wasn’t enough-the temperature is going to be falling Monday all day and end up at zero degrees by Tuesday morning.  Officials are urging citizens to be prepared for no travel  due to snow and possible power outages from the deep freeze and snow loaded trees.

We have talked to EMA Director Travis Cole who told us the county has designated warming shelters in case of wide spread and long term power outages.  Director Cole explained the plan is to open the Cumberland County Community Complex as a shelter if needed.  Should the Complex electricity go down- The Good Samaritan building on 10th Street in Crossville will be available if needed. Also, Director  Cole and Director of Schools William Stepp told CNF the School system and the EMA work together and will  open school gyms as shelters IF they have electricity should there be a widespread critical power outage.  Furthermore, The Bread of Life Mission will be open throughout the week and will be available as a warming shelter as long as their capacity limits permit.

The Cumberland County EMA will be working around the clock to monitor conditions as the storm settles in.

Temperatures are not expected to rise above freezing until Thursday. In the meantime, the county citizens should be getting prepared for alternate  heat sources but not ones that present the danger of a house fire.  Have plenty of water and food on hand and don’t forget your outdoor pets…they need warmth also.  It is imperative to have back up power for any electric operated medical equipment. There may be some churches in the county which are planning to open as warming shelters.  If churches notify CNF we will post those locations as well.