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Snowstorms & Extreme Cold

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 Photo of Winter  

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Winter storms create a higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, and heart attacks from overexertion. Winter storms and blizzards can bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice, and high winds. A winter storm can:

  • Last a few hours or several days;
  • Knock out heat, power, and communication services; and
    • Place older adults, young children, and sick individuals at greater risk.

Know the Difference

Winter comes with a unique set of different watches and warnings. Make sure you know what they mean!

Image explaining difference between winter watches, advisory, warnings, blizzards, and ice storms

Extreme Cold

In cold temperatures, wind combined with very cold air temperatures can make for very dangerous temperatures. The wind chill varies based on what the air temperature is. Long expose to dangerous wind chills can lead to hypothermia or frostbite.

Chart for calculating wind chill based on wind and temperature

IF YOU ARE UNDER A WINTER STORM WARNING, FIND SHELTER RIGHT AWAY

  • Stay off roads.
  • Stay indoors and dress warmly.
  • Prepare for power outages.
  • Use generators outside only and away from windows.
  • Continue to monitor local news media, social media, and the National Weather Service for updates.
  • Look for signs of hypothermia and frostbite.
  • Check on neighbors.

Other Helpful Resources

HOW TO STAY SAFE WHEN A WINTER STORM THREATENS:

Prepare NOW

  • Know your area's risk for winter storms. Extreme winter weather can leave communities without utilities or other services for long periods of time.
  • Prepare your home to keep out the cold with insulation, caulking, and weather stripping. Learn how to keep pipes from freezing. Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups.
  • Pay attention to weather reports and warnings of freezing weather and winter storms. Sign up for your community's warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.
  • Gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days without power. Keep in mind each person's specific needs, including medication. Do not forget the needs of pets. Have extra batteries for radios and flashlights.
  • Create an emergency supply kit for your car. Include jumper cables, sand, a flashlight, warm clothes, blankets, bottled water, and non-perishable snacks. Keep the gas tank full.
  • Learn the signs of, and basic treatments for, frostbite and hypothermia.