As winter is upon us, it is important to be prepared for quickly changing weather conditions. Winter weather can bring dangerous conditions, including cold, snow, ice, and extremely low temperatures. Being prepared is your best defense.
It is vital to undertake comprehensive preparation before the arrival of inclement winter weather. IUP Emergency Management finds it imperative to familiarize oneself with the terminology and definitions associated with winter storms.
A thorough understanding of the following terms can enhance one’s ability to respond effectively to potential hazards:
Winter Weather Advisory - TAKE PRECAUTIONS!
This alert signifies that you should exercise caution as wintry weather is expected. Light accumulations of wintry precipitation or patchy blowing snow may create slick conditions that could significantly affect travel and require drivers and pedestrians alike to take necessary precautions.
Winter Weather Watch - GET PREPARED!
This alert indicates a potential for hazardous winter conditions, advising individuals to be prepared. Confidence is moderate that a winter storm could develop, resulting in heavy snow, sleet, or ice. It serves as a prompt for residents to monitor evolving weather conditions closely and begin preparation measures.
Winter Storm Warning - TAKE ACTION!
This alert carries a strong implication that immediate action is necessary. It indicates that heavy snow, sleet, or ice is imminent or occurring, and there is a high level of confidence that the storm will cause significant impacts, including hazardous travel conditions and service disruptions.
Specific Terms
In addition to the alerts mentioned, several terms describe specific weather events that individuals should understand:
Freezing Rain
This occurs when rain falls and freezes upon contact with cold surfaces, resulting in a hazardous coating of ice on roadways, walkways, trees, and power lines. This can create extremely slippery conditions and may lead to power outages due to ice accumulation on electrical infrastructure.
Sleet
This term refers to the occurrence of rain that freezes into ice pellets before hitting the ground. Sleet creates additional moisture on roadways that can freeze, leading to dangerous driving conditions.
Wind Chill
Wind chill refers to the apparent temperature that individuals feel as a result of the combined effects of wind and low temperatures. Utilizing the Wind Chill Index allows for a calculation of heat loss from exposed skin, which is critical in understanding how quickly one’s body can lose heat in cold weather. Both humans and animals are affected by wind chill, as it significantly increases the risk of hypothermia due to accelerated heat loss. Conversely, inanimate objects, such as vehicles and buildings, will only cool to the actual ambient air temperature, a process that occurs more rapidly under windy conditions.
Be Proactive
To adequately prepare for anticipated winter weather, individuals should take several proactive steps:
Develop a Comprehensive Emergency Plan
Formulate a detailed plan outlining the necessary actions to be taken before, during, and after the occurrence of a winter storm. Ensure that all family members or housemates are familiar with this plan.
Enroll in Local Alert Systems
Sign up for local weather alerts and warnings, and listen to updates and guidelines issued by local officials. This information may include evacuation routes, shelter locations, and other vital instructions. Also, make sure you are enrolled in the IUP Emergency Notifications System for alerts.
Assemble a Well-Stocked Emergency Kit
Prepare a survival kit that contains sufficient nonperishable food, potable water, necessary medications, and any other essential daily supplies to last at least 72 hours. This kit should be regularly checked and updated to ensure its contents remain usable.
Avoid Travel During Adverse Conditions
It is advisable to remain off the roads during and immediately after a winter storm unless necessary. If travel is unavoidable, confirm that your vehicle is well-maintained and equipped for winter conditions.
Install Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Ensure that carbon monoxide detectors are installed and functioning, particularly if alternative heating sources such as generators or space heaters will be utilized during power outages.
Dressing Appropriately for Cold Weather
Wear multiple layers of insulated, loose-fitting, lightweight clothing rather than relying on a single heavy garment. This method is more effective in trapping warmth and allowing for heat retention.
Maintain Dryness
Promptly change out of wet clothing to prevent heat loss and maintain body temperature. Wet attire can rapidly reduce your core temperature.
Prepare Your Vehicle for Emergencies
Ensure that your vehicle is equipped with essential emergency supplies, including water, nonperishable food, warm clothing, blankets, a flashlight, and a first aid kit. These items are critical in case you become stranded.
IUP remains open and observes its schedules in most weather conditions unless the determination is made that conditions warrant cancellation or delays of classes. In the event of extreme weather emergency conditions, instructions will be communicated to the university community. For information on university closures and delays, visit the IUP Emergency Information page.