2024 Winter Weather Preparedness Week
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Collapse ▲December 1-7, 2024 is Winter Weather Preparedness Week. As winter is upon us, it is important to be prepared for quickly changing weather conditions. Winter weather can bring dangerous conditions including cold, snow and ice. Being prepared is your best defense.
It is important to stay tuned to local weather reports when winter weather is approaching. The following information from the National Weather Service explains some of the winter weather terminology you should know before a storm.
Watches
Watches are issued when a storm is in it’s early stage of development, and may create conditions that may harm life and property. Hazardous winter weather is only a possibility, not a certainty.
The following are the watch headlines issued for winter weather events:
- Winter Storm Watch is issued when heavy snow, damaging ice accumulations, or blizzard conditions are possible. Winter storm watches are typically issued 24 to 48 hours before a winter storm starts. Watches are issued when at least 3 inches of snow, and/or 1/4 inch or more of ice accumulation is expected in a 12 to 24 hour period.
- Wind Chill Watch is issued when dangerously cold wind chills are possible typically in the next 12 to 48 hours.
Warnings
Warnings are issued when the threat to life and property is imminent or has already begun from severe winter weather.
The following are the warning headlines issued for winter weather events:
- Winter Storm Warning is issued when hazardous winter weather in the form of heavy snow, freezing rain, sleet or any combination there of, is imminent or occurring. Winter storm warnings are typically issued 12 to 36 hours before the event is expected to start.
- Ice Storm Warning is issued when damaging ice accumulations are expected within the next 12 to 36 hours.
- Blizzard Warning is issued when sustained or gusty winds of 35 mph or more prevail, combined with falling or blowing snow, visibility of one quarter of a mile or less, and last for at least 3 hours.
- Wind Chill Warning is issued when the combination of extreme cold and winds occur. This combination will result in frostbite, hypothermia, or even death when exposed in this type of condition for an extended period of time. These are issued when wind chill values are expected to be less than -15F.
Advisories
Advisories are issued for less serious weather conditions that will not cause immediate threat to life and property. Advisories will be issued when weather conditions will impact motorists, outdoor activities, or public events. These events could become life-threatening if proper precautions are not taken.
The following are the advisory headlines issued for winter weather events:
- Winter Weather Advisory is issued for accumulations of snow, lake effect snow, freezing rain, freezing drizzle, or sleet, that will create inconveniences. During an advisory, if caution is not exercised, life and property may be threatened. Snow of a coasting to less than 3″ and any amount of ice accretion.
- Wind Chill Advisory is issued when wind chill temperatures create inconvenience to life with prolonged exposure. If caution is not exercised, hypothermia and frostbite may occur. Issued for wind chills values less than 0 degree but not colder than -14F.
If the forecast call for winter weather, start preparing a few days out.
- Have emergency supplies for your home and car
- Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Replenish fuel for your car and heating sources
Forecast accuracy improves as the storm gets closer so keep checking the latest forecast from local sources. Be ready the day before the storm.
- Adjust plans as necessary
- Have multiple ways to receive weather warnings
- Bring pets indoors and ensure that they have water
Remain vigilant and stay informed during and after the storm. Drive only if necessary.
- Check on neighbors and family
- Properly ventilate emergency heat sources
- Keep generators at least 20 feet from your home
- Take it easy when shoveling.