Emergency Shelter
Madison County emergency shelters are on standby.
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Message From Madison County Emergency Operations Center:
With 0 Shelter Occupants on Saturday night and temps predicted in the mid-40s Sunday, Madison County Emergency Shelters transitioned to a standby posture and the EOC transitioned to a monitor status effective 12:01 am, January 25, 2026.
The County Manager and Public Safety Officials will assess future shelter operations Monday at 6:00 am.
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Services and Utilities
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Due to predicted inclement weather, Saturday, January 24, 2026, all non-emergency services of Madison County Government will be closing at 12:00 p.m. The closure includes services of the Madison County Solid Waste Department's transfer station and convenience centers as well as the Madison County Public Library System.
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Electricity
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Outages: If the power goes out, utility crews will work to restore service as quickly and safely as conditions allow.
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Stay informed: Please download the Duke Energy app as soon as possible. It is the fastest way to report outages and receive estimated restoration times.
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Solar grid: If a power line feeding into town is damaged along Doe Branch, the solar system is designed to activate. Battery power will be limited due to high demand from heating and severe winter conditions.
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Water
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Current status: At this time, water service is expected to remain operational.
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Conserve water: If a power outage occurs, please limit water use. Conserving water helps ensure the system can continue serving the entire community.
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Trash Pickup
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Monday collection: Trash pickup will occur on Monday if road conditions are safe.
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Self-haul option: If you are able to safely travel, you may take your trash to a transfer station.​
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Road and Travel Guidance
Winter storms can create rapidly changing and dangerous road conditions, especially on mountain roads, bridges, shaded areas, and secondary streets. Conditions may appear passable but can deteriorate quickly.
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Avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. Even experienced drivers may encounter black ice, downed trees, or stranded vehicles blocking roadways.
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Do not drive on icy or untreated roads. Many secondary and residential roads may not be treated or plowed until conditions improve.
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Expect delays or road closures. Emergency responders and public works crews may have limited access during the height of the storm.
If travel is unavoidable:
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Let someone know your route and expected arrival time.
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Carry blankets, water, food, and essential medications.
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Keep a fully charged phone and a car charger if available.
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Keep your gas tank as full as possible.
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Drive slowly, increase following distance, and avoid sudden braking or acceleration.
If you become stranded:
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Stay with your vehicle if it is safe to do so.
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Use hazard lights to remain visible.
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Call 911 only if there is a medical emergency or immediate danger.
Residents are strongly encouraged to stay off the roads to allow emergency vehicles and utility crews to respond as quickly and safely as possible.​
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Heating and Fire Safety
Power outages combined with extreme cold significantly increase the risk of house fires and carbon monoxide poisoning. Please follow these safety guidelines to protect yourself and your household:
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Use generators, propane heaters, and other fuel-burning devices outdoors only, and keep them well away from windows, doors, and vents.
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Never use grills, camp stoves, or ovens to heat your home. These devices can produce deadly carbon monoxide even when used briefly indoors.
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Keep flammable materials away from heat sources, including space heaters, fireplaces, and candles. Maintain at least three feet of clearance.
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Never leave candles or space heaters unattended, and turn them off before sleeping.
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Ensure smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly and have fresh batteries. Test them if you are able.
If you feel dizzy, nauseous, unusually tired, or experience headaches, move to fresh air immediately and call 911, as these may be signs of carbon monoxide exposure.
These precautions are especially important during extended outages or severe weather conditions.​
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Medical and Neighbor Safety
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Winter storms and power outages can be especially challenging for individuals with medical or mobility needs. Taking a few steps now can help prevent emergencies later.
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Ensure medical devices that require power have a backup plan.
If you or a family member relies on powered medical equipment (such as oxygen concentrators, CPAP machines, or mobility devices), confirm access to backup batteries, alternate power sources, or a safe location with electricity. Keep emergency contact numbers readily available and know when to seek assistance.
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Check on neighbors with medical or mobility needs.
When conditions are safe to do so, check on elderly neighbors, people living alone, or those with limited mobility or medical conditions. A quick check-in can help ensure they have heat, food, medications, and a way to call for help if needed.
Community awareness and neighbor support are critical during severe weather events and can make a meaningful difference in keeping everyone safe.