Winter's Harsh Weather and Tips

A winter storm is consist's of different types of precipitation that form only at cold temperatures such as snow or sleet and even rain showers where the ground is cold enough to allow ice to freeze. Most winter storms happen during December through March, but could easily rise in autumn and early spring. In the Northern Hemisphere, storms usually occur during March.

One of the most dangerous types of winter storms are freezing rain. They generally occur when a layer of warm air hovers over the region, but the temperature is near 32 F. Freezing rain can cause damage such as knocking out power lines, taking out trees and crops may even be ruined. The North American ice storm of 1998 was one of the biggest storms in US history. Three million people lost power, some as long as six weeks. This storm affected Canada, Montreal, Ottawa, upstate New York as well as some parts of New England. The damage caused by this storm was estimated at three billion Canadian.

The storm that has the most snow fall is considered a Snow Storm. Did you know that two inches of snow is enough to create a disturbance to traffic and school transportation? It is because of the difficultly to drive on slick roads. Snow storms can produce as much as twelve inches or even more by the time it is over with. They are considered to be less dangerous that other storms. However spring flooding is a possibility.

How to Prepare For Winter Weather:

Now that winter is here, it is time to prepare for it. You never know what could happen. "Mother nature has a mind of her own". You should make a winter storm plan and review it with members of your household. Ensure that each member has a warm coat, hat, gloves and waterproof boots. You should keep those extra things in a storage container where you'll be able to find them. Have extra blankets on hand. You never know when you might need to huddle together under one to stay warm.

Assemble a Emergency Kit: