Prepare for the coming winter storm with tips on staying warm, safe, and supplied for the frigid conditions ahead.
City: New York: A major winter storm is on its way. It will likely affect a large part of the U.S., moving from New Mexico to Georgia and Maine. Expect snow, ice, and very cold temperatures this weekend, especially in areas that usually don’t see such harsh winter weather. It’s time to prepare.
To stay safe during this storm, you need to get ready. Severe winter weather can cause many problems, especially if you live in a place that’s not used to it. Power outages might happen if the cold causes ice and strong winds, making roads hard to drive. So, staying at home until it’s safe to travel is crucial.
Gather warm clothes, blankets, water, and food that doesn’t spoil. You’ll want everything ready, so you don’t have to leave your house or even think about driving until the worst of the storm is over. WIRED has created a helpful guide for emergency preparedness, with tips from experts at Columbia University.
Winter storms can bring unexpected troubles. Last year, during a big storm in Buffalo, New York, many people died simply because they were outside. I’ve seen how being unprepared can lead to issues even with just a little snow in places like Portland, Oregon where snow is rare.
Charlie Woodrum from the National Weather Service recommends planning for power outages. “You have to think in that mindset of, ‘We could have power out,’ he says. You may not have power or water for days, so being prepared is essential.
It’s important to have enough drinking water. During severe winter storms, your water pipes may freeze or break. A good tip is to let your taps drip slightly to prevent freezing. It’s smart to keep a week’s supply of water for drinking and cooking. Sometimes, you may need to make the water safe with household bleach, but always follow guidelines.
A good water filter bottle can help too, such as the Clearly Filtered stainless steel bottle. Plus, you can fill your bathtub with water before the storm hits. However, don’t rely on snow as a safe water source because it can be dirty. If you need to, you can melt clean-looking snow and purify it for drinking.
Staying warm is key when the power goes out. Wool clothing is great for keeping warm, and it can be worn for days without smelling bad. It’s best to wear layers, as heat is kept best between each layer. For your hands, mittens are warmer than gloves, especially if you need to be outside in the cold.
If you can, get a portable power bank to keep your phone charged. Wireless lights or candles can also help when the power fails. For larger needs, portable power stations are an option, but check their ratings to ensure safety.
If the power is out, your car can provide some heat, but be careful. Never run your car inside a garage, and always make sure the tailpipe is clear. A jump starter might also be helpful if your car battery is weak.
Be cautious when shoveling snow. It’s easy to hurt yourself by doing too much at once, especially in cold weather. Take breaks and don’t push too hard. If there’s a power outage, you can use a cooler to keep your food cold without freezing it outdoors.
Stock up on non-perishable food items like canned goods and granola. They are great to have when you can’t cook and you need something easy. If you keep extra supplies and prepare before the storm hits, you will feel more secure when the weather gets rough.
And don’t forget to charge all your devices the day before the storm. You’ll want to have everything ready when the weather turns. Download emergency apps and stay informed about any local alerts. This way, you’ll stay safe and connected, even in a winter storm.
Because you might get bored while stuck at home, have some games or activities ready for yourself and your family. Whether it’s board games or a handy device, planning can keep your spirits up while you ride out the cold.