A winter storm can range from moderate snow over a few hours to blizzard conditions that last several days. Some winter storms may be large enough to affect several states while others may affect only a single community. All winter storms are accompanied by low temperatures and blowing snow, which can severely reduce visibility. A severe winter storm is one which drops four or more inches of snow during a 12 hour span. An ice storm occurs when freezing rain falls from clouds and freezes immediately on impact. All winter storms make driving and walking extremely hazardous.

WINTER STORM
EMERGENCY INFORMATION

1. In minutes, snow flurries can change into a major winter storm. The storm can last for several days and be accompanied by high winds, freezing rain or sleet, heavy snowfall, and extremely cold temperatures. People can become stranded on the road or trapped at home without utilities or other services. The best protection against severe winter weather is to stay inside and to dress warmly by wearing loose-fitting, layered, lightweight clothing.

2. A serious danger during a winter storm is hypothermia - a condition brought on when the body temperature drops due to prolonged exposure to extreme cold. Hypothermia is not always fatal, but for those who survive there are likely to be lasting kidney, liver, and pancreatic problems.

3. Heavy snowfall and blizzards can trap motorists in their cars. Attempting to walk for help in a blizzard can be a deadly decision. Disorientation and confusion come very quickly in blowing snow. People trapped in a car during a blizzard do best to stay in the car and wait for help.

Almost the entire United States (except Hawaii and the territories) are at some risk from winter storms. The level of risk depends on the severity of local winter weather. Winter storms known as "northeasters" cause extensive coastal flooding, erosion, and property loss in the northeastern and middle Atlantic states.

BEFORE

Be familiar with the winter storm warning messages broadcast by local radio and TV stations.

Most Coffee County area residents are familiar with the rigors of coping with Northern Alabama winters. Once a winter storm arrives there is very little one can do outside of your home to "weather" its passing. Be a good neighbor. Those in your community who are elderly or new to the area may not be prepared for severe weather. Do what you can to inform them of or help them with seasonal chores such as weatherstripping, installing storm windows, wrapping pipes, stockpiling fuels and emergency food or other supplies.

Use extreme caution with kerosene or other auxiliary heaters. Check local safety ordinances. Be certain you understand completely their safe operation and that your heating devices are working properly - before you need them.

Winter Storm Warnings

A winter storm watch indicates that severe winter weather may affect your area.

A winter storm warning indicates that severe winter weather conditions are definitely on the way.

A blizzard warning means that large amounts of falling or blowing snow and sustained winds of at least 35 miles per hour are expected for several hours. A traveler's advisory is issued if travel is expected to be difficult.

DURING
IF INDOORS:

Stay indoors and dress warmly. Conserve fuel. Lower the thermostat to 65 degrees during the day and 55 degrees at night. Close off unused rooms. Listen to the radio or television to get the latest storm information.

IF OUTDOORS:
Dress warmly. Wear loose-fitting, layered, lightweight clothing. Layers can be removed to prevent perspiration and chill. Outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent. Mittens are warmer than gloves because fingers generate warmth when they touch each other.

Cover your mouth. Protect your lungs from extremely cold air by covering your mouth when outdoors. Try not to speak unless absolutely necessary.

Avoid overexertion.
Cold weather puts an added strain on the heart. Unaccustomed exercise such as shoveling snow or pushing a car can bring on a heart attack or make other medical conditions worse. Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.

Keep dry.
Change wet clothing frequently to prevent a loss of body heat. Wet clothing loses all of its insulating value and transmits heat rapidly.

Wind Chill

Wind chill is a calculation of how cold it fees outside when the actual temperature and the speed of the wind are combined. A strong wind combined with a temperature of just below freezing can have the same effect as a still-air temperature about 35 degrees colder.

Frostbite and Hypothermia
Frostbite is a severe reaction to cold exposure that can permanently damage its victims. A loss of feeling and a white or pale appearance in fingers, toes, nose, or ear lobes is a symptom of frostbite.

Hyperthermia is a condition brought on when the body temperature drops due to prolonged exposure to temperatures less than 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Symptoms of hypothermia include uncontrollable shivering, slow speech, memory lapse, frequent stumbling, drowsiness and exhaustion.

If frostbite or hypothermia is suspected, warm the person and seek immediate medical assistance. Never give a frostbite or hypothermia victim something with caffeine in it (like coffee) or alcohol. Caffeine, a stimulant, can cause the heart to beat faster and hasten the effects the cold has on the body. Alcohol, a depressant, can slow the heart and also hasten the ill effects of cold body temperatures.

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