Prepare for winter weather by learning about alerts

Photo By Scott Sturkol | A heavy-equipment operator with the Fort McCoy snow removal contractor, Kaiyuh Services LLC of Anchorage, Alaska, drives a plow truck to move snow Jan. 9, 2017, at Fort McCoy. Kaiyuh became the Fort McCoy grounds and snow-removal contractor in September 2016. (U.S. Army Photo by Scott T. Sturkol, Public Affairs Office, Fort McCoy, Wis.)  

FORT MCCOY, WI, UNITED STATES

10.24.2018

Courtesy Story

Fort McCoy Public Affairs Office           

Winter storms can bring heavy snow, ice, strong winds, and freezing rain. A major winter storm can be lethal, in addition to causing structural damage to buildings and power outages. Preparing for cold-weather conditions and responding effectively can reduce cold-weather and winter dangers.

The National Weather Service issues four tiers of alerts to inform the community of impending hazardous weather.

Outlooks include hazardous weather outlooks and “weather story” graphics. They’re issued up to seven days in advance when significant wintry weather is possible but not guaranteed. Monitor forecasts for additional information.

Advisories are issued within 24 to 36 hours of a forecast event. Advisories (typically for winter weather or wind chill) are for weather events that are not expected to pose a significant risk to life or property but could still affect travel or other activities. When these are issued, exercise caution when traveling and be prepared for possible effects.

Watches include winter-storm watches and wind-chill watches. These are issued two to three days before an event when meteorologists are fairly confident that dangerous winter weather will occur that could threaten life or property. When these are issued, start taking necessary precautions.

Warnings are issued when meteorologists are very confident of a wintry weather event that could threaten life or property. They are typically issued within 24 to 48 hours of an event. Winter storms, blizzards, ice storms, and wind chills are some of the categories that receive warnings. When these are issued, continue preparing for the forecast storm and monitor for updated warning statements.

The National Weather Service in La Crosse, Wis., issues warnings for the surrounding area, including Fort McCoy.

Winter-weather advisories are issued when 3-5 inches of snow are expected within 12 hours, freezing rain is expected to result in a glaze less than 1/4 inch thick, 1/2 inch of sleet or less is expected within 24 hours, or blowing snow will result in visibility occasionally reduced to 1/4 of a mile.

Under these conditions, drive with caution. Drive at a safe speed with plenty of space between vehicles. Watch for slick spots. Use care when walking on steps and sidewalks and clear sidewalks and driveways.

Winter-storm warnings are issued when at least 6 inches of snow is expected in 12 hours, at least 8 inches of snow is expected in 24 hours, more than 1/2 inch of sleet is expected in 24 hours, or a combination of the above with freezing rain and/or winds of at least 25 mph.

Consider postponing nonessential driving. Those who must drive should carry a winter survival kit in their vehicles and be prepared for delays. Make sure to have the proper snow-removal equipment to clear sidewalks and driveways. If a lot of snow is forecast, be prepared to remain at home for a day or two.

A blizzard warning is issued when a combination of sustained winds or frequent wind gusts of at least 35 mph and visibility of less than 1/4 of a mile due to snow are expected for at least three hours.

Refrain from driving except in emergency situations. Always carry a winter survival kit. High winds and white-out conditions will make driving extremely dangerous. Be prepared to remain at home for a few days, especially if living in a rural area. Snow drifts may be higher than 10 feet.

An ice-storm warning is issued when freezing rain is expected to accumulate and form a layer at least 1/4 inch thick. Refrain from driving except in emergency situations. Roads will likely be treacherous, and maintaining control of a vehicle will be very difficult. Be prepared for the possibility of long-duration power outages, and refrain from walking on ice-covered surfaces outside.

A wind-chill advisory means wind-chill values (the feel of the air as opposed to the actual temperature) are expected to fall to between minus 20 Fahrenheit and minus 34 F with at least 5 mph winds.

Pack extra clothes and blankets in addition to a winter survival kit in vehicles. When going outdoors, dress accordingly by wearing well-insulated hats and gloves and putting on extra layers of clothing to keep warm. Frostbite could take place in as little as 30 minutes.

A wind-chill warning is issued when wind-chill values are expected to fall to minus 35 F or less with at least 5 mph winds. Pack extra clothes and blankets in addition to a winter survival kit in vehicles. Seriously consider postponing outdoor plans. Wear well-insulated clothing if going outside. Frostbite could take place in as little as 10 minutes.

For more information on winter-weather awareness, visit the National Weather Service La Crosse website at www.weather.gov/arx/wintersafety or call the Fort McCoy Emergency Management Office at 608-388-2763.

(Article prepared by the Fort McCoy Emergency Management Office and Fort McCoy Public Affairs Office.)

• Date Taken: 10.24.2018
• Date Posted: 10.24.2018 16:01
• Story ID: 297577
• Location: FORT MCCOY, WI, US