File photo Vehicles navigate Washington Street in Marietta during the winter of 2022. Snow is not in the forecast for Christmas Day this year, but the Mid-Ohio Valley Health Department recommends people prepare for potential winter weather emergencies this season.

PARKERSBURG — Mid-Ohio Valley residents dreaming of a white Christmas should probably go ahead and set their sights on 2024.

While flakes and flurries were seen in the air Monday and some might be on the ground this morning, National Weather Service forecasts point to a relatively mild Christmas Day. In fact, meteorologist Levi Cornett said the high could approach 60.

The odds of a white Christmas – defined by the Weather Service as having at least an inch of snow on the ground at 7 a.m. local time on Christmas Day – are “generally going to be pretty low,” he said. “Temperatures are going to be a little too warm.”

With highs in the upper 50s predicted for Christmas Eve, it’s unlikely there will be any snow melting the next morning.

But even though temperatures are projected to climb from today’s high of 33 as the week goes on, winter doesn’t technically start until Thursday. So there will be plenty of time to contend with frigid temperatures and ice and snow. That’s why the Mid-Ohio Valley Health Department is encouraging residents to prepare for winter weather that could knock out heat, power and communication services, sometimes for days at a time, according to a press release from Public Information Officer Amy Phelps.

“Winter is coming, but with a few simple steps, we can all be prepared for an emergency,” she said.

The Health Department recommend people take the following actions:

≤ Winterize emergency supply kits by adding rock salt, snow removal equipment, wood for a fireplace and winter wear like mittens/gloves, hats, sweaters, coats and blankets.

≤ Plan how to communicate with family and friends in an emergency.

≤ Know how to receive important weather information and updates, including downloading the Federal Emergency Management Agency app. The department also recommends having a NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) radio and understanding the difference between a winter storm warning, watch and advisory.

≤ Understand the signs and basic treatments for frostbite and hypothermia.

“Frostbite causes loss of feeling and color in fingers, toes and face,” the release said. “Hypothermia is a loss in body temperature to below 95 degrees with symptoms of shivering, (confusion), slurred speech and drowsiness.”

Both conditions should be treated immediately, the release said. Information can be found at: https://www.ready.gov/winter-weather#prepare

More information regarding winter weather planning and all emergency planning can be found at Ready.gov.