Ice Storm Aftermath – February 23

Today we are dealing with the aftermath of yesterday’s ice storm. At first yesterday’s storm seemed more rain that initially predicted. Then, the ice started to accumulate resulting in downed branches and power lines. While the roads are mostly safe to drive, there are still downed branches and lights out due to power outages. Throughout the Ann Arbor area, many areas remain without power.

Safety Measures

First, be sure to stay far away from downed power lines – and keep those curious teens and tweens away too.

The reports that I am hearing on the roads is that the road surfaces seem fine. However, the power outages have taken out many traffic lights across town and there are branches or power lines blocking some neighborhood roads. Remember by Michigan law, a non-functioning traffic light defaults to a 4 way stop.

If you are running a fireplace, make sure the flue is open.

Plan for lots of blankets overnight or during nap time if your house is chilly.

If you are considering staying at a hotel tonight, I would call around this morning/early afternoon to see which hotels have power and availability. You could check-in early and enjoy the TV and pool, or just wait it out and make a decision once it gets dark and you are still without power..

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Events from our Sponsors

Future Innovators Academy Break Camps Days Off From School

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Ways to Stay Warm

The good news is that the temperatures are supposed to rise to nearly 50 today and the sun is out. Open your curtains, blinds, etc during the day to let the sun warm the house – but be sure to close them for additional insulation when the sun sets.

Be sure to check out our list of places that are open or closed today before heading out anywhere to stay warm.

Open All Day

The following locations are open normal hours.

• Ann Arbor District Library
• The Little Seedling – offering charging and a place for kids to play trains.
• Matthaei Botanical Gardens – 10a-4:30p
• Michigan Firehouse Museum – noon-4p
• Yankee Air Museum
• UM Museum of Natural History (Presumably the other UM museums are open as well)
• Kerrytown Market & Shops – Open – some shops amy open late.
• 2|42 Community Center
• Saline Recreation Center
• Briarwood Mall – some stores/restaurants may have alternate hours
• Veterans Ice Arena is a City Warming Center. Open to the public 10a-5p

Late Openings

These are only places who have announced an opening time. Places that have announced they will re-open when power is restored are listed under closures.

• Ypsilanti District Library – opening at noon
• Saline District Library – opening at noon
• Chelsea District Library – opening at noon
• Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum – opening at noon
• Girl Scouts Ann Arbor Office – opening at noon
• Bank of Ann Arbor Branches – opening at 11a
• Jungle Java Canton – Opening around noon

Closures

Most schools in the area are closed today, February 23. That includes both Washtenaw Community College and Eastern Michigan University.

• Leslie Science & Nature Center – power is out & a tree is blocking the driveway. All buildings closed
• Washtenaw Dairy – Closed until power is restored.
• Dexter District Library
• Booksweet – Closed until power is restored
• Lavender Lane (Milan)
• Stone & Spoon

Events Today

Be sure to check our event calendar. We are trying to keep it updated as much as possible for canceled events. The Ann Arbor Public Schools Y5/Kindergarten roundups are canceled for tonight. I already have the makeup date for Pittsfield. And will keep looking for others. If you know of any makeup dates, please let me know.

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