Cherokee County weather roundup for Jan. 12

by Staff reports

Oncor reported 4,543 area customers remained without power at 1:26 a.m. Tuesday, predicting restoration by 10 a.m. Tuesday. Officials said “the winter storm that passed through caused extensive damage to parts of our service area. Oncor personnel continue to work around the clock to assess damage and restore power in East Texas.”

Additionally, Cherokee County Electric Co-op has reported 153 customers in the Craft and Rusk areas are without power. No estimated time of restoration was provided on the CCECA website.

Meanwhile, National Weather Service – Shreveport has issued a freezing fog advisory effective until 9 a.m. Tuesday for Cherokee and surrounding counties.

Visibility will be one-quarter mile or less throughout portions of north central and northwest Louisiana and east and northeast Texas, with creating hazardous driving conditions due to low visibility and potential frost on bridges.

“Areas of dense freezing fog will deposit a thin layer of ice on all surfaces including bridges and overpasses making for hazardous driving overnight,” according to the NWS website.

“If driving, slow down, use your headlights, and leave plenty of distance ahead of you. Also, be alert for frost on bridge decks causing slippery roads,” officials advised.

School closures

Jacksonville and Wells school districts will remain closed Tuesday due to weather conditions, while districts in Rusk and Alto have announced a 10 a.m. delayed school start.

Classes will resume during the regular time Tuesday in New Summerfield ISD.