Winter is known to be a very attractive season, but on the other hand, very dangerous for people living in the area of Northern Minnesota and Northwest Wisconsin. There is currently a winter weather advisory for our area, which means that it is cold with lots of snow and ice around. Of paramount important is to be ready for the extreme conditions to avoid any form of danger or compromise on safety.
In the following blog post, you will be able to find all the necessary information on the advisory and some handy tips on how to keep warm this winter. There has been a Winter Weather Advisory Issued for Northern Minnesota and Northwest Wisconsin.
Understanding the Winter Weather Advisory
The advisory has been made in view of a low pressure system from the west, which is expected to bring snow and blustery conditions. These conditions can cause poor visibility and dangerous driving conditions on the roads. The National Weather Service has advised residents to be ready for hazardous conditions.
The communities most likely to be affected are those in Northern Minnesota and Northwest Wisconsin such as Duluth, Superior, Grand Marais, and Ashland. Other effects of climate change to be felt in rural towns and villages include:
Potential Effects of Winter Weather
Winter storms can lead to disruptions in the population’s activities. Roads may be closed, schools may be closed, and may even face power failures due to the collapse of trees or power lines under the snow load. People need to ensure that they have enough stocks and prepare adequately to avoid incidences during the storm.
These include expected snowstorms, blizzards, and extremely low temperatures that pose a danger to human lives. Such elements may make working conditions compromise and may lead to frequent accidents and injuries. Furthermore, having substantial amount of snow piled on roofs may lead to building collapses due to the weight exerted by the snow.
How to Prepare for the Winter Season
Insulate Your Home
One of the most basic measures that people take to prepare for the winter is insulation of the house. This can assist you in keeping warm and toasty while at the same time saving on your electricity bills. Look for drafts in areas where there are windows and doors and use weatherstripping or caulk to seal it. It may also be beneficial to consider insulating the attic, interior and exterior walls, as well as the basement for additional energy efficiency and home comfort.
Service Your Heating System
Have your heating system checked by a professional technician before the onset of winter weather. This will make certain that it is working effectively and can be relied on at the times when it is most required. Change the air filters, dust vents and ducts and you may also want to install a programmable thermostat for more ease and efficiency.
Stock Up on Winter Supplies
Prepare for winter and blackouts by purchasing necessary supplies. This includes canned and processed foods, bottled water, dry cell batteries, lanterns, sleeping bags and first aid kits. Store these items in a place where they can be accessed in the event of an emergency and compile a winter emergency kit for your house and your car.
Prepare Your Vehicle
Prepare your car for the winter so that you can safely drive in snowy regions. It is recommended to put on snow tires or chains, check the battery condition, the level of antifreeze and the condition of the brakes, and fill up the windshield washer tank. You should always have an emergency kit in your car which should be equipped with a shovel, ice scraper, jumper cables and kitty litter.
Protect Your Pipes
Water pipes that freeze inside homes may cause damages and uncomfortable situations during winter. Try to stop pipes from freezing with ice by insulating exposed pipes, draining outdoor hoses, and leaving faucets to drip in cold weather. If you are going to be gone for an extended period, it is advisable to turn off the water supply or maintain the temperature at home to prevent pipes from freezing.
Practice Fire Safety
During the cold winter season, people depend on other heating devices like fireplaces, wood burning stoves, or space heaters. Make sure these devices are used safely by avoiding the proximity of flammable substances, configuring screens or barriers to avoid sparks, and cleaning and inspecting chimneys or vents.
Stay Informed
Know the weather changes, winter storms, and roads condition through listening to news or from your phone’s weather applications. They should be ready to change the strategies and avoid moving around with when there is bad weather.
Dress Appropriately for the Cold
Overall, when dressing for going outside, layering is the best way to stay warm. Base layers should be moisture-wicking fabrics, middle layers should be insulating, and outer layers should be waterproof. Some important items to pack include hats, gloves, scarves, and thermal socks commonly used to prevent frostbite on areas of the body exposed to cold air.
Plan Ahead for Power Outage
Winter storms often result in power outages. You should have an emergency power source like a generator and fuel supplies to last for at least three days. Your phone must be charged and have a battery operated radio to follow the new development and emergency directives.
Know the Signs of Frostbite and Hypothermia
It is necessary to be aware of the symptoms that indicate frostbite and hypothermia in order to prevent such conditions. While frostbite makes the skin numb, and it becomes very pale and waxy, hypothermia comes with shivering, confusion, and slurred speech. If you think someone has frostbite or hypothermia, call for medical help right away.
Clear Snow and Ice Safely
Snow and ice shoveling is a strenuous activity and improper handling can be hazardous. Try to use a good ergonomic snow shovel and do not work for too long without taking breaks. Experiment with using ice melt or sand on any walkway or driveway to reduce the likelihood of slipping and falling.
Protect Your Plumbing
Frozen pipes can cause significant damage and inconvenience.
Insulate Exposed Pipes
Any pipes that are exposed should be wrapped with insulation to avoid cases of freezing. Drain outdoor hoses and let faucets drip slightly during below freezing weather to prevent pipes from freezing.
Maintain a Minimum Temperature
If you are going to be away from home for a long time, it is recommended that you turn the thermostat to a certain level to avoid freezing. Otherwise, you can empty your plumbing system to mitigate any such possibilities.
Practice Fire Safety
Alternative heating sources can pose fire hazards if not used properly.
Use Heating Devices Safely
Do not place items that can burn near fireplaces, wood stoves or space heaters. Employ screens or barriers to eliminate sparks, while chimneys and vents must be cleaned and checked frequently.
Stay Informed
Staying updated on weather forecasts, storm warnings, and road conditions is essential for safety.
Monitor Weather Reports
Watch local news stations or download weather applications on your smart phones for further details. Make changes to your plans based on the weather and do not go out during the heavy rain.
Plan for Power Outages
Blackouts are frequent during storms and blizzards in particular. Be prepared to stay warm and have ready access to communications.
Backup Heating and Power Sources
One suggestion is to invest in a generator or a heating device that runs on batteries. Retain additional blankets and warm clothing to minimize shivering during the power outage.
Emergency Communication
Make sure you have some means of communication in the event of an outage. Ensure your phone battery is full, carry a charger and ensure you have a list of people you can call in case of an emergency.
Stay Connected with Your Community
In most cases, especially when there is extreme weather, it is important to stay connected with people in your community. Visit neighbors especially those who are old or have some form of disability and help them if required. Broadcast the location of shelters, warming centers, and emergency services so that everyone can be safe.
Create a Family Emergency Plan
Preparing a family emergency plan can help reduce anxiety during a winter storm situation. With your family members, you should therefore discuss the available evacuation routes, emergency contacts, and the meeting points. Ensure that every member of the community is aware of the emergency procedures and that drills are carried out frequently.
Stay Indoors During Severe Weather
In the event of extreme weather conditions, it is advisable to refrain from going outside. Do not travel where it is not necessary, and follow the instructions or alerts given by the local administration. However, if you have to venture out, do it carefully and be observant of the situation around you.
Maintain Mental Health and Well-being
Cold weather during winter period has negative impact on human’s mental and physical state. Continue to communicate with friends and relatives, avoid going outside, and perhaps take up some hobbies to help with stress. If you are overwhelmed by these tips, do not hesitate to consult mental health care professionals.
Emergency Contacts and Resources
Maintain a directory of emergency alerts and essentials such as phone numbers to emergency services, utilities, and the insurance company. Being aware of how to seek medical attention in the event of an emergency can be very useful and can save a lot of time.
Conclusion
When it comes to this particular winter weather advisory, it is important not to underestimate its effects and to approach the issue with caution. If we all act accordingly and reduce risks to the minimum, it is possible to go through it unaffected. Take care of yourself and your dear ones, and enjoy a warm and safe winter.
For more information on winter weather preparedness, do not hesitate to contact local emergency management coordinators or visit other relevant websites. With the right knowledge and preparedness, it is easier to tackle the winter season effectively.
