Winter Storms

Almost the entire United States (except Hawaii and the territories) are at some risk from winter storms. The level of risk depends on the severity of local winter weather. Winter storms known as "northeasters" cause extensive coastal flooding, erosion, and property loss in the northeastern and middle Atlantic states.

Winter storms range from moderate snow over a few hours to blizzard conditions that last several days. Some winter storms may be large enough to affect several states while others may affect only a single community. All winter storms are accompanied by low temperatures and blowing snow, which can severely reduce visibility.

A severe winter storm is one which drops four or more inches of snow during a 12 hour span. An ice storm occurs when freezing rain falls from clouds and freezes immediately on impact. All winter storms make driving and walking extremely hazardous.

The best protection against severe winter weather is to stay inside and to dress warmly by wearing loose-fitting, layered, lightweight clothing.

In minutes, snow flurries can change into a major winter storm. The storm can last for several days and be accompanied by high winds, freezing rain or sleet, heavy snowfall, and extremely cold temperatures. People can become stranded on the road or trapped at home without utilities or other services.

People trapped in a car during a blizzard do best to stay in the car and wait for help.

Heavy snowfall and blizzards can trap motorists in their cars. Attempting to walk for help in a blizzard can be a deadly decision. Disorientation and confusion come very quickly in blowing snow.

Winter Warnings and Watches
Be familiar with the winter storm warning messages broadcast by local radio and TV stations.

Winter Storm Watch
Severe winter weather may affect your area.

Winter Storm Warning
Severe winter weather conditions are definitely on the way.

Blizzard Warning
Large amounts of falling or blowing snow and sustained winds of at least 35 miles per hour are expected for several hours. A traveler's advisory is issued if travel is expected to be difficult.

When The Storm Comes
Stay Inside:
And dress warmly. Conserve fuel. Lower the thermostat to 65 degrees during the day and 55 degrees at night. Close off unused rooms. Listen to the radio or television to get the latest storm information.

If You Must Go Outside:
Dress warmly. Wear loose-fitting, layered, lightweight clothing. Layers can be removed to prevent perspiration and chill. Outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent. Mittens are warmer than gloves because fingers generate warmth when they touch each other.

Cover your mouth. Protect your lungs from extremely cold air by covering your mouth when outdoors. Try not to speak unless absolutely necessary.

Avoid overexertion:
Cold weather puts an added strain on the heart. Unaccustomed exercise such as shoveling snow or pushing a car can bring on a heart attack or make other medical conditions worse. Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.

Keep dry
Change wet clothing frequently to prevent a loss of body heat. Wet clothing loses all of its insulating value and transmits heat rapidly.

The Wind Chill Factor:
Wind chill is a calculation of how cold it feels outside when the actual temperature and the speed of the wind are combined. A strong wind combined with a temperature of just below freezing can have the same effect as a still-air temperature about 35 degrees colder. The National Weather Service provides more information on the wind chill factor and how it is calculated.

Frostbite and Hypothermia
Hypothermia
A condition brought on when the body temperature drops due to prolonged exposure to temperatures less than 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Symptoms of hypothermia include uncontrollable shivering, slow speech, memory lapse, frequent stumbling, drowsiness and exhaustion. Hypothermia is not always fatal, but for those who survive there are likely to be lasting kidney, liver, and pancreatic problems.

Frostbite
A severe reaction to cold exposure that can permanently damage its victims. A loss of feeling and a white or pale appearance in fingers, toes, nose, or ear lobes is a symptom of frostbite.

If frostbite or hypothermia is suspected, warm the person and seek immediate medical assistance. Never give a frostbite or hypothermia victim something with caffeine in it (like coffee) or alcohol. Caffeine, a stimulant, can cause the heart to beat faster and hasten the effects the cold has on the body. Alcohol, a depressant, can slow the heart and also hasten the ill effects of cold body temperatures.