Despite school closings on Tuesday, it seems the Natchez area was spared the majority of the ill effects of the latest winter storm, which wreaked havoc on areas just to our north.

Spared this time, that is.

Temperatures dropped into the 20s Tuesday, but precipitation mostly stayed away.

We only need look back a year to see what a winter storm can mean here. It was late January 2014 when our area suffered a winter storm strong enough to make roads impassable, close the westbound Mississippi River bridge and cause widespread power outages.

The late, lingering winter storms serve as a reminder to take the time to be prepared for harsh weather.

The Center for Disease Control offers a number of suggestions to do just that:

4Make certain to keep a shovel in your vehicle, a windshield scraper and a flashlight. Well-sealed snack food and a blanket are good ideas, too. Don’t forget a first aid kit and a basic tool kit.

4At your home, keep a non-electric can opener for use during times when you are without power. Having a programmed weather radio with plenty of batteries for listening to emergency instructions is always a good idea.

4Keep your cell phone charged and keep an extra battery charged, too.

4Don’t forget your pets. Make certain they have warm shelter and a good supply of fresh water.

A little planning now came make for a much safer and more comfortable experience the next time winter or other hazardous weather strikes.