The Hudson, River Falls and New Richmond are expected to get 16-22 inches of snow between Tuesday, Feb. 21, and Thursday, Feb. 23, according to the National Weather Service, much of which will come between Wednesday morning and Thursday evening. 

River Falls schools will be closed Wednesday, Feb. 22 and Thursday, Feb. 23 due to impending conditions. Students will have at-home learning days, as coordinated by their teachers. These days will not need to be made up. 

There is plenty to consider while the snow starts to dance down, so we’ve broken it up into a few key concepts to revisit.

Traveling 

It is highly recommended by the Hudson Police Department that you stay home during snowstorms. With peak wind gusts expected near 40 mph and falling snow, blowing and drifting snow could occur across much of the forecast area on Wednesday and Thursday. 

Should you need to travel for work or emergencies, here are some tips from the Hudson Police Department and the American Red Cross: 

• Check your vehicle emergency supplies kit and replenish it if necessary. 

• Bring blankets or sleeping bags, rain gear, extra sets of dry clothing, mittens, socks and wool hats.

• Bring your cell phone and make sure the battery is charged. 

• Plan to travel during daylight and, if possible, take another person with you. 

• Let someone know your destination, your route and when you expect to arrive. 

• Before leaving, check the weather reports for all areas you will be passing through.

Download the free American Red Cross emergency app to get updates and tips. 

Accidents

If you find yourself in an accident during a snowstorm, attempt to pull off the roadway to avoid further accidents and call 911 immediately, as you would in any other accident. Advise operators of any possible injuries and the location of the accident. 

Unless help is visible within 100 yards, stay in the vehicle and wait for assistance. 

It’s going to be cold, but it’s important to follow some guidelines for engine use after an accident. 

• Turn on the engine for about 10 minutes each hour. 

• Use the heater while the engine is running. 

• Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow, and slightly open a downwind window for ventilation. 

• Leave the overhead light on when the engine is running so that you can be seen. 

“Drink fluids to avoid dehydration, which can make you more susceptible to the ill effects of cold and to heart attacks,” Hudson Police Officer James Wildman said. 

A helping hand 

With snow accumulations covering the region, along with frigid temperatures, the U.S. Postal Service asks that you help your mail carriers deliver mail.

Customers are asked to clear snow and ice from sidewalks, stairs and mailboxes.

If customers receive curbside delivery, make sure to remove snow piles left by snow plows to keep access to mailboxes clear for mail carriers.

Just as your travel may be delayed by the snow, so might be your mail carrier’s. 

Delivery service may be delayed or curtailed whenever streets or walkways present hazardous conditions for letter carriers or when snow is plowed against mailboxes. Delivery will be attempted the following delivery day if it has been delayed. 

Blue collection boxes need to be kept clear for customers to deposit their mail and for the Postal Service to collect the mail for delivery. Residents and businesses with collection boxes near their property are asked to keep them clear of snow and ice. 

The Postal Service generally receives no tax dollars for operations expenses and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operation.