Winter weather forecasts and safety
Christmas is 13 days out. Many kids are looking forward to the day to open gifts.
A farm and ranch family with livestock to tend are also keeping an eye on the weather. The first day of winter arrives on Dec. 21 and will keep its grip on the High Plains region for three months.
Winter is rarely applauded—unless you are in the snow removal business or operate a ski resort. It makes all High Plains residents mindful of its impact. The National Weather Service notes that the weather has a habit of changing pretty quickly, especially during the winter season. Powerful winter storms driven by jet streams that often exceed 200 miles per hour can bring large amounts of snow and ice, along with blowing snow and white-out conditions.
According to the NWS, “In some cases the temperature can drop over 50 degrees Fahrenheit in a matter of hours. Whether it be exposure to the cold, vehicle accidents caused by slick roads, or fires resulting from the improper use of heaters, hundreds of people are injured or killed each year as a direct result of winter weather.
“Winter storms range from a moderate snow over a few hours to a massive blizzard with blinding, wind-driven snow that lasts for several days. Some winter storms are large enough to affect several states while others affect only a single community.
“High winds, freezing rain or sleet, heavy snowfall, and dangerously cold temperatures are the main hazards associated with winter storms. Impassable snow drifts can maroon people at home without utilities or other services for days after an event. Heavy snowfall and blizzards easily trap motorists in their vehicles and make walking to find help a deadly effort. Bitter cold temperatures and wind chills during and after a winter storm can lead to hypothermia and kill anyone caught outside for too long. The aftermath of a winter storm can impact a community or region for days, weeks or even months, incurring steep economic costs.”
All of this calls attention to the need to be “winter-aware”, and that means do not take for granted the importance of preparing in advance. Having a plan to address family and employee safety and livestock care that is reviewed can make a difference.
Weather.gov/safety has a some excellent tips.
For home and businesses
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio and portable radio to receive emergency information
• Extra food and water such as dried fruit, nuts, granola bars and other food requiring no cooking or refrigeration.
• Extra prescription medicine
• Baby items such as diapers and formula
• First-aid supplies
• Heating fuel: refuel before you are empty; fuel carriers may not reach you for days after a winter storm
• Emergency heat source: fireplace, wood stove or space heater properly ventilated to prevent a fire
• Fire extinguisher, smoke alarm; test smoke alarms monthly to ensure they work properly
• Extra pet food and warm shelter for pets
• Review generator safety: Never run a generator in an enclosed space
• Make sure your carbon monoxide detector is working correctly and that the outside vent is clear of leaves and debris. During or after the storm, make sure it is cleared of snow.
• Home fires are common each winter when folks are trying to stay warm. Review ways to keep your home and loved ones safe.
For livestock and pets
• Move animals to sheltered areas or bring pets inside. Shelter belts, properly laid out and oriented, are better protection for cattle than confining shelters, such as sheds.
• Haul extra feed to nearby feeding areas.
• Have water available. Most animals die from dehydration in winter storms.
• Make sure pets have plenty of food and water and a warm shelter.
This past year has been tough enough with weather events, but preparation always makes a difference and lets us plan for future Christmas and family gatherings. No one can predict Mother Nature’s whims, but preparation is the one task we can do in advance.
Dave Bergmeier can be reached at 620-227-1822 or [email protected].
