In anticipation of the impending winter storm, expected to begin this evening and last through early Wednesday morning, the Merrill Police Department has declared a Snow Emergency as of Tuesday night.

According to a press release issued Monday morning, the Snow Emergency will be effective as of 10 p.m. Tuesday night through 10 a.m. Wednesday, to aid with plowing efforts.

“We strongly encourage vehicles to park off of the street Tuesday in case plowing operations must begin earlier,” stated Police Chief Corey Bennett.

The Snow Emergency will remain in effect from 10 p.m. Wednesday through 10 a.m. Thursday, to assist with snow removal efforts.

During these time periods, vehicles are not to be parked on city streets. Vehicles which are parked on city streets are subject to being ticketed and/or towed at the vehicle owner’s expense. The forfeiture for parking on the street during a snow emergency is $20. It is very important for vehicles to be off the streets so snow plowing operations can take place.

The brunt of snowfall is projected Tuesday morning through the overnight hours Wednesday, with projected totals ranging from six to 11 inches. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch, which includes Lincoln County, through Tuesday evening.