SULLIVAN COUNTY – As Sullivan County is keeping an eye out for the potential winter storm this Sunday, officials are already bracing with preparations and ensuring resources remain in place for those who may require assistance during the cold weather.

According to Sullivan County Communications Director Dan Hust, the county is keeping a keen eye on tracking weather conditions with its 24/7 Weather Center, coordinating with the Division of Public Works (DPW) in ensuring a timely response should roads take a hit from snow and ice.

“At this moment, it looks like the heaviest precipitation is going to track south of us,” Hust stated, adding that current projections suggest any snowfall locally may remain below six inches. “If that’s the case, it will be a pretty standard January storm for us, which we are well prepared for.”

Hust assured that Sullivan County is no stranger to handling winter weather, given their operating 22 county plow routes with 58 employees working in shifts. The county is also equipped with four spare plow trucks in the event of mechanical problems and keeps a reserve of what Hust calls a “in good shape” salt supply.

“Our county routes are very well maintained,” Hust said. “Once the storm has passed, our goal is always to get those roads as clear and passable as possible.”

While crews work diligently through storms, Hust noted that heavy snowfall can waste no time recovering freshly cleaned roads. He stated that the county could “pass through and a few minutes later it might look like we weren’t there,” and assured that when the storm finishes, they “move aggressively to clear those roads.”

Outside road conditions, resident safety remains a top priority for county officials, especially those vulnerable to prolonged cold or power outages. Hust encouraged residents to prepare ahead of time by keeping emergency supplies on hand.

“We recommend having a three- to seven-day supply of water, food that doesn’t rely on power, batteries, and making sure phones and rechargeable devices are fully charged,” stated Hust. “[And] just as importantly, check in on your neighbors.”

If someone needs immediate shelter, Hust assured that Sullivan County’s warming centers stay open nightly from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m., even through severe weather. As of presstime, he stated that Sullivan County has been sheltering an average of 20 people at the Monticello Warming Center and four people at the Liberty Warming Center.

“If someone can’t safely get to a warming center, they should contact 911, their local police department, or the Sheriff’s Office,” Hust stated. “We’ll do our best to get them somewhere safe and warm.”

Hust also cited the county’s close cooperation with the American Red Cross in events of storm related emergencies and displacement. These collaborations help secure temporary housing, as well as additional assistance.

“Sullivan County is the kind of place where people come together to help one another,” Hust assured. “I expect that will be true with this storm as well.”