Be safe, be smart! Stay alert to weather signs when the following advisories, watches or warnings are issued.
-
- SNOW ADVISORY: three to five (3–5) inches of snow is expected to fall.
- BLOWING SNOW ADVISORY: visibility is 1/4 mile or less.
- WIND CHILL ADVISORY: wind chill values are expected to be minus 35 F to minus 50 F.
- WIND CHILL WARNING: wind chill values are expected to be minus 50 F or lower.
- FREEZING RAIN / FREEZING DRIZZLE ADVISORY: driving conditions are hazardous and power lines and tree branches could become heavy and break due to freezing rain.
- ICE STORM WARNING: freezing rain/drizzle is occurring with an expected accumulation of either 1/4 inch or more of ice or 1/2 inch of sleet.
- WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY: cold, ice and snow are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous. The greatest hazard is often to motorists.
- WINTER STORM WATCH: a winter storm is possible in your area within the next day or two.
- WINTER STORM WARNING: a winter storm is headed for your area, with severe weather conditions beginning or about to begin. Prepare for low wind chill values, heavy snow and strong winds.
- BLIZZARD WARNING: heavy snow and strong winds are expected to produce blinding snow, near zero visibility, deep drifts and life-threatening wind chill.
- HEAVY SNOW WARNING: six (6) or more inches of snow is expected in a 12-hour period.
For more information, check out the National Weather Service’s page on Winter Weather Warnings, Watches and Advisories.
Download the Red Cross Emergency app to monitor more than 35 different severe weather and emergency alerts.
The free FEMA Alert App provides severe weather alerts, maps of disaster resources and other helpful information in case of natural disasters. Information is in English and Spanish and available for Apple, Android, and Blackberry mobile devices.
Photo Credit: WhatHappensNow