WINTER STORMS & BLIZZARDS

Where They Occur:
Northern states, mountain regions, and areas with cold continental climates. Most severe in the northern Plains, upper Midwest, Great Lakes, and Northeast, but can affect much of the country including southern states not equipped for severe winter weather.

Key Risks:
Hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, power outages, frozen pipes, dangerous travel conditions, and roof collapse from snow load.

Before Winter:

• Service heating systems and clean chimneys

• Insulate pipes and know how to shut off water in case pipes burst

• Stock emergency heating sources (fireplace wood, portable heaters—used safely)

• Have carbon monoxide detectors on every floor

• Maintain emergency supplies: blankets, warm clothing, food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, first aid kit

• Keep vehicle winter-ready with emergency supplies, ice scraper, blanket, jumper cables, and sand or cat litter for traction

During a Winter Storm:

• Stay indoors and dress in layers

• Close off unneeded rooms to conserve heat

• Never use generators, grills, or camp stoves indoors (carbon monoxide danger)

• Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow

• If traveling, keep your gas tank at least half full

• If stranded in a vehicle, stay in the car, run engine sparingly for heat (clear exhaust pipe of snow), and use hazard lights

After a Winter Storm:

• Check on neighbors, especially elderly or vulnerable individuals

• Remove snow from roof if accumulation is extreme (hire professionals for safety)

• Thaw frozen pipes slowly with warm air, never open flames

• Replenish emergency supplies

Resources:

• National Weather Service Winter Weather: weather.gov/winter

• Ready.gov Winter Storms: ready.gov/winter-weather

• CDC Winter Weather: cdc.gov/disasters/winter