WEST READING, Pa.- This storm was different.
Dry snow and extreme cold created challenging conditions for crews trying to clear roads across West Reading.
West Reading Public Works Director Kerry Grassley says the dry snow made cleanup especially difficult.
“This dry stuff, it just floats and comes back on the roads with you, so we just had to work with what we had,” Grassley said.
Despite the challenges, West Reading Public Works crews have continued plowing, focusing on main roads and critical routes.
“I have eight guys and they’re exhausted. They worked their behinds off,” he said.
Crews say they’re now working against the clock. With another stretch of extreme cold expected to last several days, snow becomes much harder to move once it freezes solid. Officials are urging residents to clean up as soon as possible to help crews finish the job.
“If they see us out there, they can move their cars. I’ll clean the streets curb to curb so traffic can flow again and school buses can get through,” he said.
As cleanup continues, doctors are also warning about the dangers of prolonged cold exposure.
Dr. Garrett Cavaliere of Penn State Health says people often underestimate the risks of winter weather injuries.
“The biggest mistakes people make are not being prepared for the weather,” Cavaliere said. “Wear multiple layers so we can avoid cold-related emergencies like hypothermia and frostbite.”
For those without heat or a warm place to go, help is available. Opportunity House and Hope Rescue Mission in Reading are open as warming shelters.
Public works officials say the message right now is simple: slow down, stay safe, and look out for one another.
“Be safe. Be wise. And help your neighbors,” Grassley said.