(PITTSBURGH) Oct. 29   In light of recent weather-related and other developments regarding Tropical Storm Sandy, including the decision to close Pittsburgh Public Schools, Mayor Luke Ravenstahl announced that he has ordered non-emergency City personnel to stay home tomorrow.

“As this storm bears down on our City, we need to make sure we are keeping all residents out of harm's way whenever possible,” Ravenstahl said. “The most recent weather patterns, according to the National Weather Service, show that Pittsburgh may be getting more rain and damaging winds than previously expected. We must adjust accordingly and adapt our response to this unpredictable storm.”

Refuse and recycling pickup will still resume as usual tomorrow. The Mayor’s 3-1-1 Response Line will still be staffed to take non-emergency calls such as downed trees that are not posing imminent danger. In addition, public safety and public works personnel will be working around the clock to keep residents safe during and after the storm.

The Mayor encourages residents to continue to stay informed, stay home and check on their loved ones and elderly neighbors.