While the danger from winter
weather varies across the country, nearly all Americans,
regardless of where they live, are likely to face some type
of severe winter weather at some point in their lives. That
could mean snow or subfreezing temperatures, as well as
strong winds or even ice or heavy rain storms. One of the
primary concerns is the winter weather's ability to knock
out heat, power and communications services to your home or
office, sometimes for days at a time.
Prepare
for Winter Weather
 Make sure your home is
well insulated and that you have weather stripping around
your doors and window sills to keep the warm air
inside.
Familiarize
yourself with the terms that are used to identify
winter weather.
Freezing Rain creates a coating
of ice on roads and walkways.
Sleet is rain
that turns to ice pellets before reaching the
ground. Sleet also causes roads to freeze and
become slippery.
Winter Weather Advisory means
cold, ice and snow are expected.
Winter Storm
Watch means severe weather such as heavy snow or ice
is possible in the next day or two.
Winter
Storm Warning means severe winter conditions have
begun or will begin very soon.
Blizzard
Warning means heavy snow and strong winds will
produce blinding snow, near zero visibility,
deep drifts and life-threatening wind chill.
Frost/Freeze Warning means below freezing
temperatures are expected.
Thoroughly check and
update your family's emergency supply kit before
winter approaches.
Include adequate clothing
and blankets to keep you warm.
If you have a
car, fill the gas tank in case you have to leave.
Visit
NOAA Watch for
more weather-related information.
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