Winter Weather

preparedness corner PREPARING for WINTER

Harsh winter weather brings hazards that we have the ability to mitigate as a community Here in North Texas, our tone on winter weather has changed significantly since Winter Storm Uri, where we experienced extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice, and high blistering winds Winter storms can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days – restricting, or even completely eliminating, vehicular travel. Electrical infrastructure faces a risk of losing power, which can disrupt heat sources and communication services. Hypothermia, frostbite, and carbon monoxide poisoning are all possible health factors anyone could encounter during a winter storm Communities particularly vulnerable include older adults, children, sick individuals, and pets – so make sure you are prepared for any of these emergencies, especially if a loved one is part of a vulnerable community.

Understanding the Verbiage

Knowing your winter weather terms will help you understand the severity of the situation.

A Winter Storm Warning is issued when hazardous winter weather in the form of heavy snow, heavy freezing rain, or heavy sleet is imminent or occurring. Winter Storm Warnings are usually issued 12 to 24 hours before the event is expected to begin If you are under a Winter Storm Warning, you should seek shelter immediately A Winter Storm Watch is issued to alert the public of the possibility of a blizzard, heavy snow, heavy freezing rain, or heavy sleet. Winter Storm Watches are usually issued 12 to 48 hours before the beginning of a winter storm This type of watch is issued when all the elements of a winter storm are present and continue to build together.

A Winter Weather Advisory is issued for accumulations of snow, freezing rain, freezing drizzle, and sleet, all of which could cause significant inconveniences. If caution is not exercised, it can lead to life-threatening situations.

Staying Safe in Winter Weather

To avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, generators should always be outside and away from all windows. Never turn on your gas stovetop or oven to heat your home.

If all possible, eliminate any vehicular travel. Limit outdoor activities. If you need to go outside, wear layers of clothing Monitor yourself and others for frostbite and hypothermia Reduce the risk of heart attack by avoiding overexertion if you find yourself in a situation where you will need to shovel snow.

Be prepared for winter weather at home, at work and in your car Create an emergency supply kit for your car Include jumper cables, sand, a flashlight, warm clothes, blankets, bottled water and non-perishable snacks Always keep a full tank of gas

Ensure you are “weather aware” by paying attention to weather reports and warnings of freezing weather and winter storms. Have multiple ways to receive emergency alerts Signing up for City of Lake Worth emergency alerts is as easy as texting LAKEWORTHAWARE (all caps/all together) to 99411. Follow the City of Lake Worth, Lake Worth Police Department, Lake Worth Fire Department, and Lake Worth Public Works Department’s social media platforms for city-related information and emergency situational updates. Have your favorite media outlet’s weather application on your smartphone to stay in the know, such as WeatherBug, the Fox 4 News weather WAPP, RadarScope, The Weather Channel, and more. Purchase a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) All Hazards Weather Radio from Walmart or Amazon, which will notify you of any significant weather events and more. These radios can be battery, electrical, solar and hand cranked powered

Sources: ready.gov/winter-weather