Coldest Temperatures In Decades Hit

By Robin Gregg

The negative zero temperatures in the last week canceled school, basketball games, scholar bowls, as well as local businesses, state and county offices to close. Several vehicle accidents closed down roadways and also caused a house fire due to a family trying to thaw out frozen pipes. At one point, our weather app stated it felt like -34. BURRRR

All-electric companies strongly urged all customers to save on energy by unplugging any unneeded appliances; turning down their thermostats to 68 degrees or lower, reduce water heater temperature settings, avoid using ovens, washers, and dryers.

The City of Paris shares, “Tips to help reduce power usage: Extreme temperatures and the longer run times on HVAC units will mean higher utility bills. Turn down your thermostat a few degrees and use a blanket or warm clothing to help conserve and stay warm. Limit the use of larger appliances such as laundry or dishwashers. Use smaller kitchen appliances like toaster ovens, microwaves, and slow cookers to make meals, rather than relying on your range or oven. Be sure to turn off and unplug space heaters that you don't need to use. Be mindful of the amount of time you utilize a space heater and reduce, if possible. Keep fireplace dampers closed when not in use. Unplug/turn off unused electronics, chargers, fans, and lights.”

"Conserving energy will not only help others across the region, but it will also help customers save money," said Mark Birk, senior vice president for customer and power operations for Ameren Missouri. "We appreciate our customers' support and understanding during these extremely cold temperatures."

The Monroe City Police Department urges you not to leave your animals out in this weather without proper shelter, food, and water. This may include a heat lamp, straw on an enclosed floor in an insulated shelter, heated water bowl, and various other devices to ensure your animal is properly taken care of. However, due to the weather, these precautions might just not be enough, and you may need to bring the animals indoors. Temperatures are projected to be around or below 0, as they have been multiple nights in the last week.

The National Weather Service believes a warm-up is in our near future. Let’s hope so!!!

*Photo was taken by Janice Carman in front of Appeal office on Feb 15, 2021, looking towards railroad tracks. Unable to see highway intersection.