A message from CITY OF BAY ST. LOUIS

This is a hazardous weather alert from the City of Bay Saint Louis. The National Weather Service has issued a hard freeze warning from midnight through 8:00 a.m. Wednesday as temperatures are expected to fall into the mid to lower twenties. Cold temperatures near or below freezing are expected for the next few nights, with a possibility of sleet on Thursday.

This weather presents life threatening conditions for people, pets and livestock, and property loss from frozen water pipes. Strong winds of 25 to 40 miles per hour are expected throughout this afternoon, causing hazardous driving conditions, especially for high profile vehicles.

Take action now to protect outdoor pets and water pipes. Pets should be brought indoors; if this is not possible provide shelter from the wind with hay or blankets for warmth. Use extreme caution if using portable heaters. Do not use portable heaters where pets or children can knock them over or knock something onto them and always keep at least 3 to 4 feet around and above the heater clear from any item that can melt or burn. Do not use charcoal grills or similar gas fueled appliances for heat indoors – they produce carbon monoxide – you cannot see, smell or taste it, and only a working carbon monoxide detector can alert you to the presence of this deadly gas.

Residents should monitor local news and weather today and throughout the week for changes in the forecast and for information about cold weather shelters.