Winter Weather

1
Winter Weather How To Prepare

• STEPS
• December 8th, 2009

2
Does Winter Weather Impact West Texas?

• Yes
• Most events ( 1-3 )
• Extreme Events ( 8-12 )

3
Does Winter Weather Impact West Texas?
1-3
4
Does Winter Weather Impact West Texas?

• The record for snowfall in a single day at
  Midland Intl. Airport was 9.8
• December 11th, 1998
• 2nd was 6.0
• November 28th, 2001

5
Does Winter Weather Impact West Texas?

• The record for snowfall in a single day at
  Midland Intl. Airport was 9.8
• December 11th, 1998
• 2nd was 6.0
• November 28th, 2001

6
Does Winter Weather Impact West Texas?
7
Does Winter Weather Impact West Texas?
8
Winter Weather

• Watch, Warning Advisory
• Much like Spring Severe Weather Events (example
  Tornado Warning, Tornado Watch)

9
Winter Storm Watch

• Conditions are favorable for significant snow and
  ice accumulation over the forecast area over the
  next 48 Hours.

10
Winter Weather Advisory

• Winter Weather is expected to cause travel
  problems and danger to motorists

11
Winter Storm Warning

• Winter Storm (Significant Snow or Ice
  Accumulations) are occurring or very imminent.

12
Freezing Rain Advisory

• Freezing Rain will fall, causing roads to become
  slick and hazardous.

13
Freezing Fog Advisory

• Fog will form in a sub-freezing environment,
  causing roads to become slick and hazardous.

14
Snow Advisory

• Several Inches of snow are expected to fall in
  the next 24 Hours.

15
Wind Chill Advisory

• Cold Temperatures and Strong Winds will combine
  to produce extremely cold temperatures.
• Exposing yourself to a wind chill of less than 20
  degrees for an extended period of time can cause
  your body to shut down.

16
Wind Chill Advisory

• Cold Temperatures and Strong Winds will combine
  to produce extremely cold temperatures.
• Exposing yourself to a wind chill of less than 20
  degrees for an extended period of time can cause
  your body to shut down.

17
Ice Storm Warning

• Heavy accumulation of ice will cause travel
  problems and major damage to trees and power
  lines.

18
Blizzard Warning

• Heavy Snow or Blowing Snow with winds in excess
  of 35mph and visibility less than ¼ mile is
  occurring or is expected shortly.

19
Safety At Home/Office

• Have a heat source that doesnt require
  electricity or cause a build up of hazardous
  fumes.
• Keep faucets dripping to prevent frozen pipes
• Have battery operated TV and Flashlights

20
Safety At Home/Office

• Have a supply of food that doesnt require
  electricity to cook
• Keep layers of clothing and blankets close by.
• Make sure Pets are protected.

21
Safety In The Field

• Do Not travel if warnings or advisories are
  issued.
• If you must travel, make sure someone knows your
  planned route and ETA.
• Keep a radio and cell phone with you.
• Have a traction substance such as kitty litter or
  car chains with you.

22
Safety In The Field

• Drive Slowly and with extreme caution
• Use the 9-3 position on the wheel
• Keep some ready to eat food and plenty of water
  with you.
• Keep gas tank at least ½ full

23
Safety In The Field

• If you become stranded

24
Safety In The Field

• If you become stranded
• DO NOT leave your car
• Display a trouble sign (distress signal)
• Occasionally run the engine to keep warm
• Keep yourself well covered and stretch
  occasionally