Winter Weather & How To Prepare STEPS December 8 th, 2009

Does Winter Weather Impact West Texas?  Yes  Most events ( 1-3” )  Extreme Events ( 8-12” )

Does Winter Weather Impact West Texas? 1-3”

Does Winter Weather Impact West Texas?  The record for snowfall in a single day at Midland Intl. Airport was 9.8”  December 11 th, 1998  2 nd was 6.0”  November 28 th, 2001

Does Winter Weather Impact West Texas?  The record for snowfall in a single day at Midland Intl. Airport was 9.8”  December 11 th, 1998  2 nd was 6.0”  November 28 th, 2001

Does Winter Weather Impact West Texas?

Winter Weather  Watch, Warning & Advisory  Much like Spring Severe Weather Events (example: Tornado Warning, Tornado Watch)

Winter Storm Watch  Conditions are favorable for significant snow and ice accumulation over the forecast area over the next 48 Hours.

Winter Weather Advisory  Winter Weather is expected to cause travel problems and danger to motorists

Winter Storm Warning  Winter Storm (Significant Snow or Ice Accumulations) are occurring or very imminent.

Freezing Rain Advisory  Freezing Rain will fall, causing roads to become slick and hazardous.

Freezing Fog Advisory  Fog will form in a sub-freezing environment, causing roads to become slick and hazardous.

Snow Advisory  Several Inches of snow are expected to fall in the next 24 Hours.

Wind Chill Advisory  Cold Temperatures and Strong Winds will combine to produce extremely cold temperatures.  Exposing yourself to a wind chill of less than 20 degrees for an extended period of time can cause your body to shut down.

Wind Chill Advisory  Cold Temperatures and Strong Winds will combine to produce extremely cold temperatures.  Exposing yourself to a wind chill of less than 20 degrees for an extended period of time can cause your body to shut down.

Ice Storm Warning  Heavy accumulation of ice will cause travel problems and major damage to trees and power lines.

Blizzard Warning  Heavy Snow or Blowing Snow with winds in excess of 35mph and visibility less than ¼ mile is occurring or is expected shortly.

Safety At Home/Office  Have a heat source that doesn’t require electricity or cause a build up of hazardous fumes.  Keep faucets dripping to prevent frozen pipes  Have battery operated TV and Flashlights

Safety At Home/Office  Have a supply of food that doesn’t require electricity to cook  Keep layers of clothing and blankets close by.  Make sure Pets are protected.

Safety In The Field  Do Not travel if warnings or advisories are issued.  If you must travel, make sure someone knows your planned route and ETA.  Keep a radio and cell phone with you.  Have a traction substance such as kitty litter or car chains with you.

Safety In The Field  Drive Slowly and with extreme caution  Use the 9-3 position on the wheel  Keep some ready to eat food and plenty of water with you.  Keep gas tank at least ½ full

Safety In The Field  If you become stranded…

Safety In The Field  If you become stranded…  DO NOT leave your car  Display a trouble sign (distress signal)  Occasionally run the engine to keep warm  Keep yourself well covered and stretch occasionally