Winter Storm Warning

UPDATED:  Wednesday, February 7, 2022 9:40 AM

The Street Parking Ban in the City of Mentor related to last week’s winter storm has been lifted.


A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for the area through 7:00 AM Friday.  Heavy mixed precipitation is expected with total snow accumulations of 8 to 12 inches.

For up to date weather information, please visit the National Weather Service website or stay tuned to local media.

SNOW PLOWING
The Public Works Department is responsible for maintaining approximately 500 lane miles of roadway, utilizing 15 – 20 plows for a routine snowfall, and as many as 40 trucks during a major snow event. During a snowstorm, plows focus on the main roads to benefit the greatest number of motorists. Once the main roads are cleared and salted, side streets and cul-de-sacs are plowed.

A street parking ban may be issued during a snow emergency. A Snow Emergency is defined as that time when there has been an accumulation of snow, sleet, hail, or ice on any streets or roads. No parking is permitted on any city street during a Snow Emergency.  Please remove parked cars from the roadway during a snow event.

Clearing snow and ice from sidewalks and driveway aprons is the responsibility of the property owner. It is a violation of City ordinance to shovel or blow snow into the roadway. Learn more

TRASH PICKUP
At the time of this update, trash pickup has not been delayed. Check on service delays or sign up for notification on the Waste Management website.

SIGN UP FOR REVERSE 911 NOTIFICATION SYSTEM
The City of Mentor utilizes the Lake County EMA Wireless Emergency Notification System to notify residents of emergencies, road closures, or other special circumstances. Residents can sign up to receive information via text or email.  We will be utilizing this system to share information during the course of the storm should the need arise.  Registration takes less than 60 seconds, so visit https://entry.inspironlogistics.com/lake_oh/wens.cfm right now.

HOW TO REPORT POWER OUTAGES & DOWNED LINES
Customers who experience a service interruption due to the storm are encouraged to report their outage by calling 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877), texting OUT to LIGHTS (544487) or clicking the “Report Outage” link on www.firstenergycorp.com.

FirstEnergy customers can sign up to receive email and text message alert notifications for updates after they’ve reported a power outage. Customers can also use two-way text messaging to report outages, request updates on restoration efforts and make other inquiries about their electric accounts. More information about these communication tools is available at www.firstenergycorp.com/connect

Ice accumulation can bring down power lines and tree branches. Customers should assume all downed or low-hanging power lines are energized and dangerous. Stay at least 30 feet away and use extra caution where downed lines are tangled in trees or other debris. Report downed lines ASAP by calling 911.

For updated information on the company’s current outages, the company’s storm restoration process and tips for staying safe, visit FirstEnergy’s 24/7 Power Center at www.firstenergycorp.com/outages.

OPERATE BACKUP GENERATORS SAFELY
Emergency power generators offer an option for customers needing or wanting uninterrupted service. To ensure the safety of the home’s occupants as well as that of utility company employees who may be working on power lines in the area, the proper generator should be selected and installed by a qualified electrician.

When operating a generator, the power coming into the home should always be disconnected. Otherwise, power from the generator could be sent back onto the utility lines, creating a hazardous situation for utility workers. Locate the generator outside of your home and far away from windows, doors, and vents. Never locate a generator inside your home.

View additional generator safety information.