Lawrence County Agencies Preparing for Ice Storm Event

The Lawrence County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) conducted a multi-agency briefing Friday, January 23, 2026, in preparation for an ice storm expected to impact Lawrence County beginning Saturday morning.  The briefing included representatives from law enforcement, utility systems, city and county fire departments, and local and county governmental officials. Discussions focused on anticipated hazardous weather conditions, response coordination, and public safety concerns associated with significant ice accumulation.

EMA Director Shelton Barnett emphasized the importance of responder safety during the event. Officials cautioned that travel conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly, with Saturday afternoon travel potentially becoming extremely dangerous or impossible.  Area residents are urged to remain off of the roads unless travel is absolutely necessary.

Utility providers discussed power restoration priorities should widespread outages occur. While power infrastructure is more robust in 2026 compared to the historic ice storm of 1994, officials acknowledged that power interruptions remain a strong possibility due to ice-related damage.

First responder organizations, including EMA, EMS, E-911, law enforcement agencies, fire departments, highway departments, and state partners will be fully staffed throughout the event. However, residents are advised to expect delayed response times if road conditions become as hazardous as predicted.

Lawrence County EMA urges residents to closely monitor weather updates, avoid unnecessary travel, and take appropriate precautions to prepare for possible power outages and extended hazardous conditions.

Additional updates will be provided as conditions develop.