RENO, Nev. – December of 2021, In a somewhat ironic twist, a Reno police officer delivering a crucial weather safety message found herself on the receiving end of a dousing from a fellow officer. The incident occurred on Thursday, which marked the start of a snowy and rainy Christmas weekend in Reno, resulting in icy road conditions and travel complications across the region. As a Winter Storm Warning loomed over the area, the National Weather Service issued alerts of potential snow accumulation ranging from 3 to 10 inches and wind gusts of up to 40 mph extending westward into California.
Reno Police Department’s Public Information Officer, Kellie Dunn, took to social media to share an important cautionary message directly from the streets of Reno. Acknowledging the severity of the weather conditions, Dunn urged residents to exercise patience and vigilance while traversing the roads. She emphasized that several traffic issues had already arisen due to the inclement weather.
However, just moments after Dunn delivered her safety message, another Reno police cruiser passed by, unintentionally causing a wave of flooded street water to engulf Officer Dunn. Nevertheless, Dunn demonstrated unwavering professionalism and resilience. Despite being left drenched and likely cold, she carried on with her message, urging viewers to “be safe and stay dry.”
Overnight, the road conditions worsened, resulting in hazardous icy surfaces on Christmas Eve morning. Drivers experienced a slow and challenging commute across the Sierra Front, with further snowfall anticipated throughout the day, extending into western Nevada. The National Weather Service Office in Reno even hinted at the possibility of a white Christmas for the city, albeit potentially occurring late on Saturday.
While the incident of Officer Dunn being soaked may elicit a few chuckles, it underscores the significance of exercising caution during such treacherous weather conditions. As drivers face challenging road conditions, it is imperative to adapt driving behaviors accordingly, allowing for increased travel time, reducing speed, and maintaining safe distances between vehicles.
Despite the unexpected splash, Officer Dunn’s commitment to public safety remained unwavering. Her ability to continue her safety message in the face of an unforeseen circumstance is commendable, highlighting the dedication of law enforcement personnel to serve and protect their communities.
As Reno residents brace themselves for the possibility of a white Christmas, it is crucial to heed weather advisories and remain vigilant while navigating the roads. By adhering to safety guidelines and exercising patience, we can collectively ensure a safer and more enjoyable holiday season for all.
Please note that road conditions can change rapidly during inclement weather. Stay informed about weather updates and follow guidance from local authorities to ensure your safety.