In six states, postal service has been suspended, or at least interrupted, by severe winter storms – with over 100 facilities closed.
A large snowstorm ravaged several northern states last week, which caused the USPS to shutter the doors of several post offices. The temporary closures went into effect starting February 21st with an emergency announcement. At first, South Dakota was most impacted as 37 locations were closed, including Groton and Valley Spring. Iowa’s postal facilities in Maurice and South Amana were also closed down due to weather. Within the same announcement, operations at the Carthage, New York location were also temporarily paused, but this was because of “safety concerns.” According to local news reports, sparks and smoke were said to have been coming from an electrical line. The post office remains closed as it undergoes a safety evaluation.
Snowed In? Don’t Miss Our No-Cost Webinars for Federal Employees, Retirees, and their Families -
As the winter storm raged on, and a separate uncommon blizzard advanced on California, other post offices in four more states were shut down due to inclement weather. Besides California, 14 US Post Offices were closed in Minnesota, 23 in North Dakota, and in Michigan, 51 USPS facilities had been hit by power outages – along with over 700,000 homes.
While delivery service isn’t suspended in all of the area where facilities had to be shuttered, the USPS did note it cannot deliver mail if recipients of that mail don’t pitch in to provide safe access for their mail carrier. This includes roads being plowed and sidewalks shoveled so the mailbox can be safely reached by the US postal employee.
----
Until Next Time,
You Might Also Enjoy This Podcast
The information has been obtained from sources considered reliable but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any opinions are those of Serving Those Who Serve writers and not necessarily those of RJFS or Raymond James. Any information is not a complete summary or statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision and does not constitute a recommendation. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy suggested. Every investor’s situation is unique and you should consider your investment goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon before making any investment or financial decision. Prior to making an investment decision, please consult with your financial advisor about your individual situation. While we are familiar with the tax provisions of the issues presented herein, as Financial Advisors of RJFS, we are not qualified to render advice on tax or legal matters. You should discuss tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional. **
