The Riley County Board of County Commissioners has directed all Riley County Government offices and facilities to close Thursday, December 22, except for those fulfilling essential functions. The Board of County Commissioners will not meet December 22. Agenda items will be rescheduled for a future meeting.
Winter Storm and Wind Chill Warnings will be in effect for Riley County and much of Kansas from Wednesday evening through Friday morning. Strong, gusty winds, blowing snow, and life-threatening cold temperatures as low as -40 degrees are expected with this storm and will create dangerous travel conditions.
People are advised to stay indoors and avoid travel during the winter weather warnings. Anyone who must go outdoors should wear appropriate clothing and limit their time outside. Anyone who must travel should keep a winter emergency kit in the vehicle.
“We hope everyone takes the cold weather seriously. Stay indoors, bring pets inside, and check on elderly and vulnerable neighbors. If you have an emergency, call 9-1-1,” said Riley County Emergency Management Director Russel Stukey. “We hope everyone stays safe and thankfully, temperatures should start to warm up next week.”
Essential staff including Public Works snowplow crews, Emergency Medical Services, Riley County Fire District #1, and Emergency Management will remain on duty as needed.
Riley County government offices will also be closed December 23 and December 26, for the Christmas holiday.
Find information and advice about winter weather and extreme cold at https://www.ready.gov/winter-weather.