Christmas storm stranded motorists in county

The latest snow storm that swept through Cheyenne County at the end of December led to a few stranded motorists on county roads.

Cheyenne County Sheriff John Jenson said all travelers were eventually dug out and no injuries were reported, but the episode highlighted the importance of being prepared when driving in the winter.

"We had a few people that were going from Point A to Point B and got stuck," he said.

While attempting to reach the stranded motorists, deputies also became stuck in the snow. Jenson said the county road department assisted and was able to get everyone to safety.

While state and county road departments work to keep roads clear, high winds can blow snow back onto recently plowed surfaces, the sheriff said.

"People can drive on a road where it's bare, and then a few miles down, it's a couple feet deep," he said.

All of the motorists stranded during the Christmas storm called for help and stayed in their vehicles. Jenson said that's exactly what emergency responders urge.

"If you get stranded, don't leave your vehicle," he said. "In zero visibility conditions, you lose all sense of direction."

Emergency kits are essential for survival if stuck in cold weather for an extended period of time, and Jenson suggested all drivers keep blankets, warm clothes, food, a flashlight and a candle in their vehicles.

Many county residents commute along county roads or highways into Sidney or other communities for work, he added.

"If you have to travel when it's that bad, let someone know where you're going and what the route is, so we have a starting point," Jenson said, in the case a search is necessary.

But the best advice is to simply avoid travel when conditions are bad or when the forecast calls for snow and high winds, he said.

"I don't think it's done yet," Jenson said of the wintery weather. "We still have three or four months."

With a couple storms having already hit the county this season, the sheriff said he is pleased some employers are closing earlier when conditions are bad.

"I have to give a big kudos to the businesses that sent people home before dark," he said. "That was a smart move. I know it's hard for businesses to do, but it shows they're putting their people No. 1."