City of Carmel prepares for winter storm
CARMEL, Ind., Jan. 3, 2025 - The City of Carmel is actively preparing for the first winter storm of the year as heavy snow and ice are forecasted for the weekend and into Monday, Jan. 6.
The Street Department has a fleet of 90 salt trucks and plows ready to battle the elements and keep our city streets safe.
Once the heavy snow stops, main thoroughfares and secondary streets will be cleared and safe for travel. An all-city plow will then begin, including all neighborhood streets. Residents are advised to stay off the roads during the heavy snow fall and then afterward, be patient and allow for plenty of travel space while the snowplows are clearing the main thoroughfares. Paths and trails will be cleared in the days that follow once roads are cleared.
“Based on the current forecast, we will begin 12-hour shifts for our crew,” said Matt Higginbotham, Street Commissioner. “We will not conduct a full city-wide salt treatment before the event, since there is no ice forecasted for our area prior to the snowfall.”
The city’s public safety leaders are working with county officials to ensure emergency services continue to operate throughout the anticipated severe weather.
Updates related to street conditions and other storm-related matters will be posted on city social media pages.
WARMING CENTERS
Area churches are offering access for those in need during extreme cold weather. The designated centers will be open during standard business hours, allowing those in need to warm up for a short period of time and make arrangements for other services and accommodations. A list of centers and related information can be found on the Weather Aware page on the city's website.
MAILBOX OR LAWN DAMAGE
If your mailbox or lawn is damaged by a City of Carmel plow, please email Street@carmel.in.gov with your name, address, phone number and a brief description of the damage. A service request will be written for repairs. You may also choose to call (317) 733-2001, but please be patient since call volume is anticipated to be heavy.
CLEARING SIDEWALKS
Residents, property and business owners are reminded that it is their responsibility to clear their sidewalks after a snow event, particularly those near schools. Not everyone is able to shovel snow safely. Please be aware of neighbors who are elderly or physically unable to shovel or plow and help them clear their driveways and sidewalks if possible.
AVOIDING FROZEN PIPES
Now is a good time to locate your water main shut-off valve. Should a pipe freeze or break, turn off the water immediately. Residents are encouraged to insulate exposed pipes, particularly in unheated areas like attics and basements, keep the thermostat set to a consistent temperature above 55°F, open cabinet doors under sinks where pipes are located, let faucets drip slightly during cold weather and drain outdoor hoses and faucets before freezing temperatures arrive.
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About the City of Carmel, Indiana
A thriving community acclaimed for its distinct amenities, robust business environment and excellent schools, the City of Carmel was named the #1 Best Place to Live in the nation by Livability. Highly regarded by its residents as a safe community offering an exceptional quality of life, Carmel is home to an award-winning parks system and a wealth of cultural options. Carmel is built for big dreams. Find out more at www.carmel.in.gov.
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