Upcoming Winter Storm Preparations
Much of the United States is preparing for a significant winter storm expected this weekend, with various warnings issued across the country by the National Weather Service (NWS). As of Wednesday afternoon, alerts include winter storm watches, extreme cold warnings, and winter weather advisories, aimed at keeping residents informed and safe.
The NWS defines various types of weather notices, with distinctions based on regional criteria. For example, what constitutes “extreme cold” may differ widely between states like Georgia and North Dakota. The NWS advises residents to familiarize themselves with the terms and changes, which might affect preparations in their specific region.
As of 4:30 p.m. ET on Wednesday, winter storm watches are in effect spanning from New Mexico, moving northeast into the Carolinas and West Virginia. These notices take place when there is medium confidence that a storm will bring heavy snow, sleet, and ice, which could lead to significant impacts such as hazardous road conditions and fallen power lines.
Current Weather Warnings and Advisories
For specific areas, the NWS has classified several warnings:
- A winter storm warning has been issued north of Syracuse, New York, predicting up to 28 inches of snow and wind gusts reaching 35 miles per hour, which could create white-out conditions and low visibility.
- Extreme cold watches are currently scattered across regions including the Northeast, Great Lakes, and parts of Montana and Texas. The NWS suggests that residents prepare for dangerously cold temperatures and potential wind chills.
- Blizzard warnings apply to parts of South Dakota, Minnesota, and Iowa, indicating imminent risks such as limited visibility due to snow and wind gusts of 35 mph or more.
Residents are advised to stay indoors whenever possible, especially during the coldest parts of the day. If outdoor activity is unavoidable, the public should dress in layers, ensure skin is covered, and inform someone about their whereabouts.
As for precautions at home, individuals are encouraged to take steps to protect against freezing conditions. In the Fort Worth and Dallas area, for instance, residents should cover outdoor faucets, leave indoor faucets dripping, and familiarize themselves with water shut-off valves in case of emergency.
Additionally, the NWS will assist residents in finding the specific notices relevant to them by searching their zip code on the NWS website.
Safety Recommendations and Preparedness Tips
The winter weather advisories currently in place, covering parts of the Dakotas, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Colorado, prompt caution when driving. Light wintry precipitation or blowing snow could affect road conditions. Travelers are urged to prepare for potential challenges.
In summary, various regions are gearing up for substantial winter weather, with multiple warnings and advisories issued by the NWS. This situation calls for heightened awareness and preparation to ensure safety during the impending storm. Some details are limited in the source, so this summary focuses on what is confirmed.
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