Colder weather coming for many
Some people thoroughly enjoy colder weather and the white fluffy stuff that often comes with it, while others continually look for a way to escape the cold for warmer temperatures. Regardless of your stance on cold and snow, it’s the time of year when temperatures are dropping as winter approaches.
Areas around the Rocky Mountains and the Upper Midwest have already had their first snowfall, and forecasts from the National Weather Service predict the Northeast could experience several inches of snow this weekend.
Now is the time to make sure your home and family are prepared for colder temperatures – and Ready.gov has some specific tips on how you can get ready. Here are a few to get you started:
- Thoroughly check and update your family's emergency supply kit before winter approaches and add the following supplies in preparation for winter weather.
- Rock salt or more environmentally safe products to melt ice on walkways,
- Sand to improve traction on exterior walkways,
- Snow shovels and other snow removal equipment, and
- Also include adequate clothing and blankets to keep you warm.
- Have an emergency kit in your car, in the event you are stranded by a blizzard or traffic jam. Be sure to include items you would need to stay warm and comfortable for at least 72 hours.
- Learn how to shut off water valves (in case a pipe bursts).
- Know what to do if the power goes out. Winter storms can also cause power outages, so make sure you take precautions to get prepared.
- Be familiar with severe winter weather terminology:
- Winter Storm Watch means severe weather such as heavy snow or ice is possible in the next day or two. Follow local news reports and be alert to changing weather conditions.
- Winter Storm Warning means severe winter conditions have begun or will begin very soon. Stay indoors during the storm and avoid traveling.
- Blizzard Warning means heavy snow and strong winds will produce a blinding snow, near zero visibility, deep drifts and life-threatening wind chill. (Obviously, you’ll want to stay inside and avoid traveling during a blizzard.)
- Frost/Freeze Warning means below freezing temperatures are expected.
And in case you missed it, check out this New York Times story where our Boston native and resident winter weather expert, Deputy Administrator Rich Serino, talks about ways you can get prepared for a power outage – a possibility after a severe winter storm.
Rina Fizzling Out
According the National Hurricane Center forecasts, the remnants of Hurricane Rina are still swirling in the Caribbean, and pose little to no threat to the U.S. or its territories. We continue to closely monitor the tropics, as hurricane season lasts until November 30. If you live in an area that may be affected by hurricanes or tropical storms, take steps to get prepared today at Ready.gov/hurricanes.
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