The St. Joseph County Leaf Program has activated its Snow Plan as lake-effect snow blankets portions of the county, causing delays in leaf collection across affected townships.

Townships not impacted by snowfall will continue with their current leaf pickup schedule. However, officials say service in snow-covered areas will not resume until leaf piles are fully visible and overnight temperatures consistently remain above 38 degrees – a condition necessary to thaw leaf piles and prevent them from sticking to pavement or grass.

The National Weather Service forecast predicts 4 to 8 inches of snowfall across the county through Tuesday, with temperatures expected to rebound into the 40s and 50s once the storm passes.

Leaf crews will return to neighborhoods as weather allows, but officials cannot provide an exact date for resumption of services. Residents are encouraged to check the status of their township’s collection schedule at sjclp.com.

In the meantime, county field supervisors will conduct daily checks to determine whether leaf piles have thawed enough for safe pickup.

Officials noted that one to two additional days may be added to the schedule for every day of rain, snow, or sub-38-degree temperatures at night.

Further updates will be posted on the St. Joseph County Leaf Program website as conditions develop.