Download Winter Weather Preparedness

Winter Weather
Winter weather is the most complex weather phenomena forecasters’ face in
North Carolina. Winter storms often seem to take on the chaotic nature as rain turns into
sleet, then to snow, and then back to sleet before ending in freezing rain. Winter storms
nearly always bring significant and sometimes rapid change in the weather which can
greatly affect our lives and safety. Winter storms can develop and last for just a few hours
or linger for days. Some of the worst winter storms in North Carolina have produced
heavy snow and ice and trapped people in their cars or isolated them in their homes
without utilities or services for days and even weeks.
Winter storms result from a variety of weather patterns. North Carolina sits on the
battlefield between cold air from the north and warm moist air from the south. The timing
of the cold air colliding with moisture streaming in from the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic
Ocean typically dictates the type of precipitation you see falling in your backyard.
Geography also plays a large role in our weather. The Appalachian Mountains to our
west act to pile up cold air over the state while the warm waters of the Gulf Stream
provide moisture and lots of energy to winter storms.
So, why is this important to know? Each year, dozens of Americans die due to
exposure to cold, vehicle accidents, and fires due to the use of candles. Threats such as
hypothermia and frostbite can lead to loss of limbs or cause permanent injuries and even
death. A major winter storm can last for several days and be accompanied by high winds,
freezing rain, or sleet, snowfall, and cold temperatures. People can become trapped at
home or in a car without utilities or other assistance, and attempting to walk for help can
be a deadly decision. The aftermath of a winter storm can have an impact on a
community or region for days, weeks, or even months.
Now what can be done to be more prepared? First, stay informed. The National
Weather Service issues a variety of advisories for winter weather situations. In general, a
watch lets the public know that dangerous weather is possible within the next 24 hours.
An advisory indicates that dangerous (but not necessarily life-threatening) winter weather
conditions are already happening or may about to begin. A warning indicates that very
dangerous (and possibly life-threatening) winter weather conditions are already
happening or may be about to begin. A warning should be taken more serious that an
advisory, which is more serious that a watch. Next, be prepared. At home and work,
primary concerns are loss of heat, power, and telephone service and a shortage of
supplies if the storm continues for more than a day. You should have available: flashlight
and extra batteries, battery powered weather radio (and portable radio to receive
emergency information), extra food and water (have high energy food, such as dried fruit,
nuts, and granola bars, and food requiring no cooking or refrigeration), extra medicine
and baby items, heating fuel (refuel before you are empty), emergency heat source
(fireplace, wood stove, space heater), and a fire extinguisher. Also, make sure pets have
plenty of food, water, and shelter. In vehicles, plan your travel and check the latest
weather reports to avoid the storm. Fully check and winterize your vehicle before the
winter season begins. Avoid traveling alone and let someone know your timetable with
primary and secondary routes. Lastly, dress for the season. Wear loose, lightweight,
warm clothes in layers. Trapped air insulates. Remove layers to avoid perspiration and
subsequent chill. Outer garments should be tightly woven, water repellent, and hooded.
Wear a hat. Half your body heat loss can be from the head. Cover your mouth to protect
your lungs from extreme cold. Mittens, snug at the wrist, are better than gloves.
What if you are caught in a winter storm? If caught outside, try to stay dry and cover all
exposed body parts. Build a fire for heat and place rocks around the fire to absorb and
reflect heat. Melt snow for drinking water (eating snow will lower your body
temperature). If you are in a vehicle, stay in the vehicle. Run the motor about 10 minutes
each hour for heat and open the window a little for fresh air to avoid carbon monoxide
poisoning. Be visible to rescuers. Turn on the dome light at night when the engine is
running. Tie a colored cloth, preferably red, to your antenna or door. Raise the hood to
indicate you need help. If you are inside, again, stay inside. When using alternate heat
from a fireplace, wood stove, space heater, etc., use fire safeguards and properly
ventilate. If you have no heat, close off unneeded rooms, stuff towels or rags in cracks
under doors, and cover windows at night. Also, wear layered clothing as described
previously.
We have explained the dangers of winter weather and the life-saving actions you
can take. With this information, you should be able to recognize winter weather threats
and be ready and prepared when severe winter weather is here. Remember, your safety is
up to you.