GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Ahead of today’s delayed winter storm, shoppers are gearing up for the storm by making their last-minute purchases to tackle the snow before it hits the ground. Starting Friday and throughout the weekend, snow accumulation will cause a safety concern for vehicles on the road.
“If you can overcome the storm in 1978, we can live through this, this is easy,” Dave Baldwin said. Baldwin was shopping at Lowe’s on Plainfield Avenue ahead of the snowstorm.
Because of the anticipated road conditions, shoppers try to make purchases beforehand. Some stores are selling out of items as demand skyrockets.
Emergency managers are warning people to stay off the roads.
“If you got to get somewhere, get there as soon as you can, beat the storm you know, that’s what I’m going to try to do,” Michael Anderson said, who works at Alger Hardware store.
A shopper at Lowe’s said she’s trying to get ahead of the storm and get a bang for her buck – hoping to get a shovel that will last for a while. She said she doesn’t have anyone to shovel her snow for her.
“You’ll be stranded and if you can’t get a shovel you’re out of luck. I don’t really like the snow, I’d rather have sunny weather,” Debra Daniels said.
Lowe’s was almost out of shovels, as many people came in for last-minute needs. Items shoppers are gearing up for include snow salt, shovels, hats and gloves, and some looking to purchase snow-blowers or get theirs repaired.
Lowe’s general manager Dave Baldwin says customers’ safety is their top priority, and they are extending their hours of operations to accommodate the needs of shoppers, especially those who will be making last-minute purchases for the snowstorm.
“So, the main thing is getting these people prepared for the storm that should be rolling through anytime and by shopping yesterday or today as we've seen a lot of shoppers come through, they know that they're preparing to stay home as this blizzard hits whether it be the next three days or however long it lasts for,” Waite said.
Baldwin says he thinks some items might already be gone, which made him go to some of the stores a bit early.
“I’m not terribly worried about the storm today, but I did need a new snow shovel and I thought well let's see if there are any left,” Baldwin said.
Those needing snow-blower repairs or tune-ups can turn to Alger Hardware in Grand Rapids.
Cashier Asher DeYoung said his store provides many services to assist people with beating the snowstorm.
“Lots of people are looking to get their snow-blowers tuned up and repaired and we do that here, and also buying used snow blowers those are going fast,” DeYoung said.
Compared to last year’s snowstorm, customers say they’re pretty happy with the delay of the snow, giving them a little bit more time to prepare for the snow.
To track the snow in your area, you can click here for more information.
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