Winter Weather Advisory and Things To Consider During The Season

When a winter weather advisory is issued, it’s not just a suggestion—it’s a call for action! The cold months bring the potential for winter storm warnings, freezing rain, and even blizzards that could throw a wrench in your plans. But with the right knowledge and preparation, you can keep yourself safe and sound through it all. Let’s dive into the important things you need to know when a winter weather advisory is in effect.

Understanding the Winter Weather Advisory

A winter weather advisory is a heads-up from the National Weather Service about snow, blowing snow, ice, or sleet that could affect your area. It signals that winter weather will cause some disruptions, but conditions won't be severe enough to trigger a winter storm warning. A Winter Weather Advisory warns of approaching snow, ice, or sleet expected to cause significant inconveniences and hazardous travel conditions. Keep in mind, this advisory doesn’t mean you should ignore it—it’s still important to prepare for slippery road conditions, ice accumulation, and even heavy snow. Even though these conditions may not meet the warning criteria, they can still lead to hazardous conditions.

Winter Storm Warning: What Does It Mean?

When you see a winter storm warning, take it seriously. This means that snow, ice, or sleet will cause significant disruptions. These storms are often accompanied by blowing snow, cold temperatures, and strong winds, making roads dangerous and travel difficult. A major winter storm can lead to power outages, drifting snow, and visibility hazards. Expect snow accumulations and ice pellets that create a thick layer of ice, so take extra precautions to stay safe. A Winter Weather Advisory does not indicate immediate life-threatening conditions, unlike a warning, but still signals potential danger if caution isn't exercised.

Freezing Rain and Ice Storm Warnings

Freezing rain is one of the most dangerous forms of winter weather. It coats everything with a thin layer of ice, making surfaces like roads and trees hazardous. If you receive an ice storm warning, it means ice accumulation could exceed 1/4 inch, which can lead to downed power lines, fallen trees, and power outages. While freezing rain might look pretty on tree branches, it makes driving treacherous and increases the chances of hazardous conditions like slippery roads and wet clothing. Advisories indicate conditions that are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous, less severe than warnings but more certain than watches.

Preparing for the Cold: Insulate and Protect Your Home

During extreme cold conditions, protecting your home from heat loss and cold air is essential. Cold temperatures can cause pipes to freeze and even burst, leading to costly repairs. Install storm windows, insulate pipes, and cover windows to keep your home warm and energy-efficient. If you lose power, you’ll be glad you took the time to prepare. And don’t forget about keeping extra blankets and warm clothing on hand!

Blowing Snow and Visibility Hazards

The combination of blowing snow and high winds can reduce visibility to near zero. When blowing snow is in full force, drifting snow makes the road conditions even worse. With wind chills adding to the discomfort, it's important to avoid unnecessary travel during these winter storms. Even short trips can turn into a life-threatening experience if visibility becomes too low. Make sure to keep your headlights on and only drive when absolutely necessary.

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Wind Chill and the Danger of Frostbite

Wind chill makes the cold feel even worse. When you’re exposed to cold air, the wind strips away heat from your body, causing it to feel much colder than the actual temperature. This is dangerous and can lead to frostbite and hypothermia. When wind chill values drop, it’s essential to wear several layers of clothing, keep your face covered with a scarf, and protect your hands and feet with mittens and warm socks. The criteria necessary to issue a winter weather advisory is defined by each local National Weather Service Weather Forecast Office.

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Ice and Sleet: Watch Out for the Slippery Roads

While snow is annoying, ice and sleet can make roads nearly impassable. When heavy snow is mixed with freezing rain or ice pellets, it forms a thick layer of ice on roadways that sticks to everything. This can lead to slippery road conditions, which means driving becomes extremely dangerous. The best course of action is to stay home and wait for conditions to improve. If you do need to go out, make sure your car is equipped with proper tires, and drive slowly.

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Snow Accumulations: Keeping Your Driveway Safe

If you’re dealing with snow accumulations during a winter storm, it’s essential to clear your driveway and sidewalks to avoid slippery conditions. Be cautious though—underneath the snow, ice accumulation may already be forming, making things even more hazardous. Heavy snowfall, ice, and extreme cold can immobilize an entire region. Shoveling snow can help, but using rock salt will also help prevent further build-up of ice, keeping your walkways and driveway manageable.

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Winter Weather Doesn’t Have to Be a Nightmare

Winter weather can bring unexpected challenges, but being prepared is half the battle. Whether it’s a blizzard warning, freezing rain advisory, or winter storm watch, knowing what to do ahead of time ensures your safety. Make sure to install storm windows, insulate pipes, and keep emergency services contacts handy. Remember to layer up, stay warm, and stay informed—winter weather doesn’t have to ruin your season if you’re ready for it.

Major Winter Storms: What You Need to Know

A major winter storm means serious trouble. These storms can bring blizzard warnings, extreme cold, and heavy snow, all at once. Power outages and drifting snow are common during these events, and emergency services may be overwhelmed. If a major winter storm is approaching, make sure you have an emergency kit with essentials like food, water, blankets, and flashlights. Keep snapped power lines and falling tree branches in mind and avoid traveling if you can. Winter storms can damage property, close highways, and create safety risks such as hypothermia.

Prepare for the Worst: Winter Storm Watches and Warnings

A winter storm watch is a heads-up that conditions could deteriorate into severe winter weather. It doesn’t mean a storm will definitely happen, but it’s time to get prepared. A winter storm warning follows when there is a certainty of hazardous winter weather like heavy snow, freezing rain, or blowing snow. If the conditions escalate, you could be dealing with life-threatening situations, so always have your emergency services contacts ready. Make sure your heating system is working and that you’re stocked up on necessities like water, batteries, and food. Winter Storm Warning is issued for a significant winter weather event, including snow, ice sleet, or blowing snow, or a combination of these hazards.

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