Large parts of the United States are preparing for dangerous winter weather this weekend, as a powerful winter storm is expected to bring heavy snow, freezing rain, icy roads, and extreme cold temperatures.
To help people stay safe, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a range of weather alerts across the country. These include winter storm watches, winter storm warnings, extreme cold alerts, winter weather advisories, and blizzard warnings.
With so many different notices in place, it can be confusing to understand what each one means and how serious the threat is. This simple guide explains every winter weather alert, what to expect, and how to prepare.
Why Winter Weather Alerts Can Vary by Region
According to the National Weather Service, winter weather alerts can differ from state to state.
For example:
Georgia may issue cold weather alerts at higher temperatures
North Dakota residents are more used to freezing conditions, so warnings may be issued at much lower temperatures
“You will probably find there’s a certain amount of regionalisation that is necessary,” said Richard Bann, an NWS forecaster.
To check alerts in your area, people are advised to search their ZIP code on the National Weather Service website.
Winter Storm Watch: What It Means
A winter storm watch is issued when forecasters believe there is a medium chance of severe winter weather arriving soon.
What to expect:
Heavy snow
Sleet or freezing rain
Ice build-up on roads and power lines
As of Wednesday afternoon, winter storm watches were in effect from:
New Mexico
Across Texas
Northeast through the Carolinas and West Virginia
What you should do:
Start preparing early
Check heating systems
Stock up on essentials
Avoid unnecessary travel plans
Winter Storm Warning: Take Immediate Action
A winter storm warning means there is high confidence that severe winter weather is about to hit or already happening.
Current example:
Areas north of Syracuse, New York, could receive up to 28 inches of snow
Wind gusts may reach 35 mph
White-out conditions are possible
Safety advice:
Finish all preparations immediately
Drive only if absolutely necessary
Expect low visibility and drifting snow
Extreme Cold Watch: Dangerously Low Temperatures Possible
An extreme cold watch warns that very low temperatures or wind chills may occur, but exact timing is still uncertain.
Alerts currently issued in:
The Northeast
Great Lakes region
Parts of Montana and Texas
How to prepare:
Avoid outdoor activities during the coldest hours
Keep at least half a tank of fuel in your vehicle
Update your winter emergency kit
Protecting Your Home During Extreme Cold
Local NWS offices are also urging residents to protect their homes from frozen pipes.
For example, in Dallas–Fort Worth, residents are advised to:
Cover outdoor taps
Let indoor taps drip slightly
Open cabinet doors under sinks
Know where the water shut-off valve is located
Temperatures in the area could fall between 0°F and 28°F over several days.
Extreme Cold Warning: Life-Threatening Conditions
An extreme cold warning is issued when dangerously cold temperatures or wind chills are happening or about to happen.
Areas affected include:
Parts of North Dakota
Much of Minnesota
Wisconsin
Official guidance:
Avoid going outside entirely
If you must go out:
Dress in layers
Cover all exposed skin
Tell someone where you are going
Winter Weather Advisory: Use Extra Caution
A winter weather advisory means lighter snow or ice is expected, but conditions could still become dangerous.
Potential risks:
Slippery roads
Reduced visibility
Slower traffic
Advisories issued for parts of:
The Dakotas
Michigan
Pennsylvania
Colorado
Eastern New York
Drivers are urged to slow down and allow extra travel time.
Blizzard Warning: Do Not Travel
A blizzard warning is the most serious winter alert.
Conditions include:
Heavy falling or blowing snow
Wind gusts over 35 mph
Visibility reduced to less than ¼ mile
Conditions lasting at least three hours
Blizzard warnings were in effect across:
South Dakota
Minnesota
Iowa
What to do:
Stay indoors
Do not travel
If stranded in a car, stay inside and wait for help
Carry a winter survival kit at all times
Final Advice: Stay Informed and Stay Safe
With a major winter storm expected this weekend, staying informed could save lives.
Key tips:
Monitor local weather alerts
Follow advice from emergency services
Avoid unnecessary travel
Prepare both your vehicle and home
Sources
National Weather Service (NWS)
NPR News
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
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