Winter Weather Preparedness

Winter storms can bring a dangerous mix—freezing rain, heavy snow, ice, and winds—that pose serious local threats including power outages, impassable roads, hypothermia, and frostbite. Although the extremes of winter weather is rare in the Southeast, they do still come. Knowing winter-specific terms and how to prepare can make all the difference when cold weather hits.

Understand Winter Alerts & What They Mean

Winter Weather Advisory
- Issued when conditions (snow, sleet, freezing rain) may cause significant inconvenience or hazardous travel. Use caution and plan accordingly.
Winter Storm Watch
- Alerts you when blizzard, heavy snow, or freezing rain is possible within the next 12–48 hours. Start preparing now.
Winter Storm Warning
- Dangerous winter conditions are occurring or imminent. Take action to protect life and property.
Wind Chill Advisory / Warning
- Advisory: wind chill values may be uncomfortable or hazardous with prolonged exposure. Warning: wind chill is life-threatening and requires immediate action to prevent frostbite or hypothermia.

Protect Your Home & Vehicle

Winterize your home
- Insulate water lines, caulk and weather-strip doors and windows, and insulate attic and walls to retain heat.
- Inspect chimney annually if using a fireplace or wood stove. Install detectors: smoke and battery-operated carbon monoxide.
Winterize your vehicle
- Have antifreeze checked or added, use winter-grade windshield fluid, and ensure good tire tread and proper pressure.
- Keep a full tank of gas and an emergency car kit (blankets, flashlight, water, food, shovel, etc.) in case you're stranded.

Stay Safe at Home During a Storm

Create a stay-home kit
- Keep flashlights, extra batteries, NOAA Weather Radio, bottled water, non-perishable food, and medications.
- If using alternative heating (fireplace, kerosene heater), ensure proper venting and CO detectors installed.
Safety first: Avoid hazards
- Stay off roads if possible. If shoveling snow, take breaks—overexertion can trigger heart attacks.
- If a generator is needed, place it outdoors at least 20 feet from doors and windows. Always use CO detectors on every level.

Protect Against Cold-Related Illnesses

Understand hypothermia and frostbite
- Hypothermia signs: shivering, confusion, slow speech. If untreated, can be life-threatening.
- Frostbite: numbness, white or waxy skin on extremities. Don't rub—warm gradually and seek medical help for severe cases.

Prevent cold stress for outdoor workers
- Dress in layers, take warm breaks, use a buddy system, and monitor for cold injury symptoms.
- Know that wetness, wind, and exhaustion increase risk—even at temps above freezing.

Check on Others & Stay Warm

Protect Pets & Animals