(File Photo) The Bell Bridge in Washington County is seen collecting snow in Dec.

With severe weather in the forecast, schools and organizations in Washington County are making preparations as they determine whether to postpone and cancel any events planned for this weekend.

The National Weather Service placed a winter storm warning in effect from 7 a.m. Saturday to 7 a.m. Monday, with up to 15 inches of snow predicted to fall on the area by Monday morning. After a forecast high temperature of 33 on Sunday, the “warmest” prediction next week is 21 degrees Tuesday and Wednesday.

Events around the area were being canceled or rescheduled.

Marietta City Schools Communication Coordinator Christian Hudspeth said they had several school-related activities on Saturday that were canceled due to inclement weather.

“We went ahead and postponed weekend events because we didn’t want to have students traveling,” he said. “As far as next week, we’re just waiting to see what happens but we’re prepared if we do get as much as they’re saying.”

(File Photo) A light snow made for slick streets and roads for early morning drivers, including this one on Alta Street in Marietta, Jan. 16.

The Marietta Board of Education meeting that was scheduled for Monday has been postponed until Thursday.

Warren Local Schools Superintendent Kyle Newton said all calendar updates can be found on the school app. He said the district canceled Saturday night events and games but daytime events were still scheduled because the snow isn’t expected to start until the evening.

“We’re not going to pre-cancel anything for next week until we know what happens with the weather,” said Newton. “We are in communication with the other schools and districts to make determinations, and collaboration between the superintendents has been fantastic.”

Newton said if school is canceled on Monday, it would be their seventh snow day. He said snow days seven, eight and nine will be “blended” days so students will have classwork prepared ahead of time they would be required to complete at home.

Belpre City Schools Superintendent Jeff Greenley said Friday evening the district hasn’t made any definitive decisions on school events. He advised Belpre residents to follow the district’s social media accounts and website over the weekend for any announcements.

(File Photo) Snow coats cars and the train bridge in Belpre on Tuesday following heavy snowfall over the weekend.

Looking at Ohio as a whole, “My main advice to everyone is to stay home if you can,” Gov. Mike DeWine said in a release. “By staying home, you and your family will be in the safest place to ride out the storm; you give ODOT (the Ohio Department of Transportation) and local road crews time to plow the roads; and you can help ensure that law enforcement resources aren’t taxed.”

ODOT and the Ohio State Highay Patrol offer the following advice for those who must be out on the road:

– Plan your route ahead of time and leave early.

– Slow down and increase the distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.

– Check tire pressure, car battery and windshield fluid.

– Make sure to carry a winter emergency kit with the basics you may need if you’re stranded.

– If you do find yourself involved in a crash or your vehicle breaks down, turn on your hazard lights, move your vehicle as far off the roadway as safely as possible, remain inside and call #677 or 911 for help.

– If your vehicle becomes stuck in snow, clear the tailpipe to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

– Make sure to give snowplows plenty of space.

Tips from the Ohio Emergency Management Agency:

Before the storm

– Monitor local weather forecasts and sign up for emergency alerts.

– Have a supply of non-perishable food, bottled water (three days), medications, flashlights, batteries, a radio, warm clothing, and blankets.

– Insulate pipes, check heating systems, seal windows and doors, charge phones and backup power sources.

– Identify a safe, warm place, make a family communication plan, and ensure pets and livestock have shelter and supplies.

– Keep snow shovels and ice melt in easy-to-access areas.

During the storm

– Close off unused rooms, use blankets and layers, and avoid ovens or grills for heat.

– When using generators, follow the manufacturer’s directions.

– Do not leave space heaters unattended.

– Keep phones charged, use text messages to conserve your battery, and listen to official updates.

After the storm

– Inspect your home for damage, leaks, or ice buildup, and clear snow carefully.

– Clear snow and debris from storm drains.

– Watch for downed power lines, report immediately, and be cautious of slippery surfaces.

– Check on neighbors, especially elderly or vulnerable individuals, and share resources.

Tips from the Ohio Department of Aging:

– Caregivers should have a plan in place in the event they cannot reach their loved ones by locating the nearest emergency shelter and identifying a trusted neighbor to serve as a backup caregiver.

– Wear boots or shoes with good traction to help prevent falls.

– Dress in layers and limit exposure to the outdoors during extreme cold temperatures.

Staff reporters Douglass Huxley and Amber Phipps contributed to this story.