City officials are trying to get a handle on a wicked winter forecast. Columbia taking an hour-by-hour approach.

"What we want to do is make sure that we're ready and prepared for any type of weather incident that we have," says reaves.

Once precipitation falls, Columbia Homeland Security Director Harold Reaves says the focus shifts from the skies to the ground. Power outages, roadway conditions and cancellations for businesses and schools will be the focal points for the city. Reaves puts an emphasis on using common sense.

"First of all, tonight or early tomorrow morning, if you don't need to get out, then don't," says Reaves.

"Stay home if possible and just prepare for possible bad weather," says Missy Gentry, City of Columbia Public Works Director.

Public works will be monitoring bridge and roadway temperatures. Snowplows and salt trucks will hit the road if necessary..

"You don't want to start putting the salt and sand out if you don't need it. So, we've got to wait until it's time," says Gentry.

Several city departments are on standy-by ready for for a long night. But mother nature has the final say on the city's response.

And there are several other tip to keep in mind. If you've got elderly neighbors be sure to check on them. Also, windy weather is possible so stay away from downed power lines.

And the local fire department is discouraging the use of portable heaters and candles. If your home loses power, fire officials say fire houses are a good temporary shelter.