(WKBN) — Winter is just over a month away and this week Ohio’s Emergency Management along with the state’s Committee for Severe Weather Awareness (OCSWA) is recognizing Winter Safety Awareness Week.
With the Valley preparing to experience a rain/snow mix later this week, now is a good time to get you and your family prepared.
Know the hazards
There are different winter weather products and terminology thrown around when a storm is approaching. The severity depends on what the National Weather Service will issue as precautions to the public. The three most common include Winter Weather Advisory, Winter Storm Watch and Winter Storm Warning.
In addition to Winter Storm Warnings, the NWS can issue Blizzard or Ice Storm Warnings. Blizzard Warnings mean there will be strong winds and snow will significantly reduce visibility. Ice Storm Warnings mean there could be significant ice accumulation.
In your home
As part of Winter Safety Awareness Week, OCSWA says its a good idea to make sure your severe weather emergency kit is restocked and ready. An emergency preparedness “go-kit” ready in case of a power outage can help you leave your house quickly.
After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Being prepared means having your own food, water and other supplies to last for several days. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency.
Preparing for road conditions
Road conditions can change fast during a winter storm. It’s important to give plenty of room between you and the car in front of you, especially when there’s snow and/or ice on the roadways. When those conditions are present, drivers only have seconds to come to a complete stop, even less at faster speeds.
The 7-day forecast is showing that the first snowflakes are expected later this week, with the possibility of lake effect snow into the weekend. Stick with Storm Team 27 with the latest forecast and timing.
