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OTTUMWA, IOWA -- The weather has been unusually warm this past week. However, that has not stopped the Ottumwa Public Works Department from making sure they are ready for whatever accumulation may be coming our way.

They have approximately 1,300 tons of salt and 300 pounds of sand on hand

Warmer temperatures have not only felt nice for those enjoying the weather outside, but also on the pockets of the Public Works Department.

“I mean, it helps out the budget just like last year. You know, we only spent about 1/3 last year what we did on a normal year here lately so this definitely helps the budget and if we get another mild winter the same way this year then it'll definitely help the budget again,” said Steve Edgington, Public Works Department.

Edgington said even when there are light amounts of accumulation, the department still sands and salts intersections.

They use a chemical called geomelt made from beet juice that is sprayed onto the sand as it is poured onto the ground. This helps to activate the salt and adheres to the streets.

Edgington said to not be fooled by the nice weather we have had recently and to winterize your vehicles before the first snowfall hits.