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County of Berks announces building closures due to impending snowstorm

From County of Berks

Dec 16, 2020

Reading, PA — The Berks County Commissioners and President Judge Thomas G. Parisi have decided to close all County buildings at noon on Wednesday, Dec. 16, due to the predictions for a severe snowstorm. County officials will keep a close eye on what develops throughout Wednesday and will make a decision by 7 p.m. regarding operations on Thursday, Dec. 17. These closures do not apply to the County’s 24/7 operations. Employees of 24/7 operations should follow their department’s inclement weather policy.

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning in effect from 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 16, until 10 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 17. Predictions from weather agencies currently range from 8 to 12 inches to as much as 20 to 24 inches. The heaviest snowfall is expected late Wednesday afternoon into the evening. In addition to heavy snow, the winter storm warning predicts strong winds gusting as high as 35 mph. Due to these conditions, travel may be very difficult or impossible in some areas. The heavy snow and high winds may also lead to power outages and property damage.

Many county departments and staff will continue to work remotely during the building closure. The Commissioners plan to still host the virtual Weekly Update program at 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday with members of the Berks County Health Advisory Panel about the recent COVID-19 surge and the vaccine. The Commissioners also plan to hold the virtual Board of Commissioners meeting on Thursday at 10 a.m., whether or not County buildings are open. The meetings will go on as scheduled, unless there are significant power outages or technical issues that arise. This week’s meeting includes the approval of the 2021 budget. Links for both online meetings can be accessed here.

The County will post any updates to the County of Berks homepage at www.countyofberks.com, on County social media channels and through the local media.

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