Winter Weather

Are You Prepared for Winter Weather?

Know Your Risk

Several terms are used in weather forecasts to describe winter weather. Make sure you know what they mean.

Blizzard Warning – Sustained winds or gusts of ≥ 35mph with significant falling or blowing snow limiting visibility to ≤ ¼ mile; expected to continue for 3 or more hours

Blizzard Watch – Sustained winds or gusts of ≥ 35mph with significant falling or blowing snow limiting visibility to ≤ ¼ mile; expected to continue for 3 or more hours is possible within the next 36 hours

Freeze/Frost Warning – Widespread frost during growing season; temperatures at or below 32F expected

Heavy Snow Warning – Heavy snowfall amounts are imminent

Ice Storm Warning – Heavy ice accumulation is occurring or imminent; ranges from ¼ to ½ inch or more of freezing rain

Sleet – Rain that turns to ice before reaching the ground

Snow Advisory – Moderate snowfall amounts are occurring or imminent

Winter Storm Warning – Winter storm is imminent or occurring; conditions include snow, freezing rain/sleet and strong winds

Winter Storm Watch – Winter storm is possible in your area within the next 36 hours

Winter Weather Advisory – Hazardous weather conditions are likely or imminent; used for combination of two or more conditions including snow, freeze rain/drizzle, sleet and blowing snow

Winter weather, including winter storms and extreme cold negatively impact your health. Know how to keep warm, and the signs of hypothermia.

Prepare

Create a preparedness plan and kit for you and your family. In addition to your family, think about your car and home when preparing for winter weather.

Keeping a winter weather kit in your car is vital! The kit could include: