The morning of January 6, 2024, saw light snowflakes falling across Lakeland, signaling the arrival of winter weather. However, the biggest concern for the community lies later this week, with forecasts predicting a 90% chance of snow Friday, January 12.
Former Fox 13 Memphis meteorologist Joey Sulipeck took to Facebook to alert residents, urging them to prepare for potentially severe weather conditions. “Watch out for this Friday, models showing some more commotion that could have a real impact here,” Sulipeck warned, encouraging everyone to stay alert.
As the region braces for the cold, local officials are concerned about the risks that come with such weather, particularly the possibility of water pressure drops due to broken pipes. Lakeland Mayor Josh Roman reassured residents that local mayors have already been in communication with Memphis Light, Gas, and Water (MLGW) to discuss contingency plans for extreme conditions.
Roman highlighted that if water pressure falls below 20 psi, a precautionary boil water advisory could be issued across Lakeland and the Memphis metro area. However, he emphasized that MLGW is in a better position to handle such situations this year, thanks to improvements in infrastructure.
Mayor Roman said MLGW assured him they now have the capacity to produce and pump more water than they did at this time last year with additional wells to help meet demand in the case of loss water pressure. Additionally, MLGW has insulated water production well motors to ensure they continue operating through the cold snap and avoid freeze-ups that could exacerbate the situation.
Residents are encouraged to keep an eye on weather updates and take necessary precautions to stay safe in the coming days as Lakeland prepares for potentially impactful winter weather.
