Orange County Responds to Winter Storm Blair
By: Orange County Communications Department, Photographs from Orange County Sheriff ’ s Office Facebook Page
Orange County experienced its first full - scale winter weather of the season earlier this month. For some (like students enjoying an extended winter break) this storm was a cause for celebration. For others, it was a cause for concern. For Orange County first responders, it was another day at the office, but with a few extra considerations. The Governor declared a state of emergency on Friday, January 3, foreseeing widespread impacts across the
Commonwealth. Officials declared a local state of emergency for Orange County as the storm approached on Sunday, January 5. Along with that declaration, a virtual Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was opened to coordinate the response. An EOC opened virtually functions very much like one opened physically, but allows some staff to remain off of the roads to avoid increasing unnecessary traffic. The weather was regularly monitored, with Sheriff ’ s Office Deputies and Fire & EMS staff making regular reports about road conditions and responding to any incidents. Information about preparedness and winter weather safety began flowing well before the storm began. These notices and posts helped ensure residents were aware and ready for the incoming snow. Throughout the storm, updates were posted across several social media channels. Thankfully, Winter Storm Blair did not result in widespread power outages, but the lingering cold temperatures meant hazardous road conditions remained longer than usual. Despite the passing of Winter Storm Blair, there is still plenty of winter remaining. Want to stay in the loop with Orange County resources and updates? Subscribe to the “ County News & Press Releases ” list online at www.orangecountyva.gov/notifyme. Next, be sure to follow the social media channels listed below:
County of Orange Fire & EMS Facebook page: www.facebook.com/countyoforangefireandems
Orange County Sheriff ’ s Office Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ocsheriffva
Orange County Local Government Facebook page: www.facebook.com/orangecountyva
Orange County E - 911 Center Facebook page: www.facebook.com/orangecountye911
Page 7 | January 2025
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