Update: Bartholomew County restricts travel to emergencies only

Updated: 4:45 p.m.

Bartholomew County officials have upgraded the county’s travel status to a Warning or Red level, which restricts travel to emergency travel only. The Bartholomew County commissioners have signed a Disaster Emergency Declaration that is in effect until noon on Tuesday.

During a travel warning level you are directed to refrain from all travel; to comply with necessary emergency measures; to cooperate with public officials and disaster services forces in executing emergency operations plans; and to obey and to comply with the lawful directions of properly identified officers.

Earlier:

Bartholomew County Emergency Management is announcing that the county’s travel status has been upgraded to a watch, or orange, level.

A travel watch means means that conditions are threatening to the safety of the public. During a “watch” local travel advisory, only essential travel, such as to and from work or in emergency situations, is recommended, and emergency action plans should be implemented by businesses, schools, government agencies, and other organizations.

You should use caution when you are driving this afternoon.

The city of Columbus is announcing that due to the winter storm affecting the area today and tomorrow, all Columbus City buildings and non-emergency services, including transportation services, will be closed on Tuesday, February 16th. City emergency services will continue to operate.

The weekly Board of Public Works and Safety meeting, normally held on Tuesday mornings, is rescheduled to 10 a.m. in the morning on Thursday, February 18th. However, the regularly scheduled City Council meeting WILL be held on at 6 p.m. on Tuesday. You can view the meeting online, and find a link on the city website at columbus.in.gov.

City officials will also continue to update the city website with any further weather-related information.

Bartholomew County government offices will also be closed tomorrow due to the weather conditions.

Photo: INDOT snow plow in Columbus. Photo courtesy of Bartholomew County Emergency Management