Culpeper Chamber Shares Critical Winter Weather Preparedness Resources for Businesses

Culpeper Chamber Shares Critical Winter Weather Preparedness Resources for Businesses
Local risk management expert provides guidance as region braces for significant winter storm

CULPEPER, VA – With forecasters predicting 16-24 inches of snow followed by accumulating ice this weekend, the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce is sharing critical preparedness resources for local businesses and community members.

Aaron Marks of One Thirty Nine Consulting, a Chamber member and risk management expert, has provided comprehensive winter weather preparedness advisories to help businesses navigate what is expected to be the most significant winter weather event the region has seen in a decade.

The advisory warns that this multi-day event, lasting from Saturday through Monday with an extended recovery period, could result in power outages and access complications persisting 24-72+ hours after precipitation ends. Historical patterns suggest 2-4 day business closures for similar events.

"The safety and preparedness of our business community is paramount, especially as we face weather conditions we haven't experienced in years," said Amy Frazier, President/CEO of the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce. "We're grateful to Aaron and One Thirty Nine Consulting for providing these valuable resources to help our members make informed decisions and protect their employees, customers, and facilities during this significant weather event."

The advisory emphasizes the importance of making deliberate decisions now rather than during the event when information flow may be disrupted. Key recommendations include:

• Operations: Establish closure thresholds, decision authority, and remote work options where feasible
• Facilities: Test backup power and heating systems, protect pipes from freezing, and stock ice melt for walkways
• Workforce: Communicate early with employees, discourage unsafe travel, and clarify pay and leave policies

The resources also highlight common pitfalls to avoid, including reopening too early, underestimating power restoration duration (typically 24-72+ hours), and making last-minute closure decisions.

Two versions of the preparedness advisory are available for download on the Chamber's website:

• Short version: https://culpeperchamber.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Severe-Winter-Weather-Preparedness-Advisory_short_2026.01.21.pdf
• Comprehensive version: https://culpeperchamber.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Severe-Winter-Weather-Preparedness-Advisory_long_2026.01.21.pdf

The Chamber encourages businesses and community members to review these resources immediately and share them within their networks to promote safety and preparedness.