When we think of winter storms our first thought is often parking, but winter storms create a higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, and heart attacks from overexertion. Winter storms including blizzards can bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice and high winds.

We are each other’s best line of defense in a weather emergency! If winter storm warnings are in effect check on your neighbors. 

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Winter Storm Watch: A Winter Storm Watch is issued when there is the potential for significant and hazardous winter weather within 48 hours. It does not mean that significant and hazardous winter weather will occur...it only means it is possible. Significant and hazardous winter weather is defined as a combination of:

1. 5 inches or more of snow/sleet within a 12-hour period or 7 inches or more of snow/sleet within a 24-hour period and/or enough ice accumulation to cause damage to trees or powerlines.
   a life threatening or damaging combination of snow and/or ice accumulation with wind. 
2. The snow/sleet criteria for a Winter Storm Watch for the five westernmost counties (Allegany, Mineral, Grant, Pendleton, and Highland) is higher (6 inches or more within a 12-hour period; 8 inches or more within a 24-hour period).

Blizzard Warning: A Blizzard Warning means that the following conditions are occurring or expected within the next 12 to 18 hours.

Winter Storm Warning: A Winter Storm Warning is issued when a significant combination of hazardous winter weather is occurring or imminent.

More Information 

• National Weather Service - Winter
• Red Cross – Winter Safety

All plans or recommendations contained herein are flexible and subject to change, based on the nature of the emergency. It is always important to follow the official guidance or orders of state, county and local officials at the time of an emergency.

Chilly Tips For Furry Friends
From the Humane Society

• Windchill can threaten a pet's life. Exposed skin on noses, ears and paw pads are at risk for frostbite and hypothermia during extreme cold snaps. Make walks a bit shorter when the temperature drops.
• Rock salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate the pads of your pet's feet. Wipe all paws with a damp towel before your pet licks them.
• Don't leave pet cats outdoors when the temperature drops, even if they roam in warmer temperatures.