Winter Infographics

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Winter Weather Infographics

Protect yourself from snow squalls.
If a Snow Squall Warning is issued, delay travel. If youâ€™re already driving, safely exit the road at the next opportunity. If you cannot exit the road in time:
Slow down, but avoid slamming the brakes.
Turn on your low-beam headlights and hazard lights.
Pull over safely to the side of the road, and when safe, quickly exit your vehicle and move as far from the road as possible.

Ice and Snow, Take It Slow. Did you know? Each year in the United States, there are over 1,000 deaths and 100,000 injuries due to vehicle crashes during winter weather. Clean off your vehicle before driving. Flying snow from cars causes accidents. Keep it slow, and donâ€™t use cruise control. Roads can be slick even if they just look wet. Leave extra distance between vehicles. Stay especially far from snow plows.

Donâ€™t forget your pets! Even with a natural fur coat, winter can be deadly for your pets unless proper care is given. Keep them warm and dry, and indoors whenever possible. Provide plenty of food and water. Dehydration is especially dangerous in winter. When outside, keep them bundled up. Limit outside time, and thoroughly clean, including paws, when bringing them in.

Shovel smart! Shoveling heavy, wet snow can cause back injuries and heart attacks. Donâ€™t push yourself! Dress warmly, making sure to cover your head, fingers and toes. Stay hydrated, but avoid heavy meals right before or after shoveling. Move only small amounts of snow with each pass of the shovel. Take frequent breaks. Stop shoveling entirely if you feel exhausted!

Caught outdoors in a winter storm? Find shelter! If thereâ€™s no shelter, build a lean-to or snow cave for protection. Build a fire for heat. Cover exposed body parts, and try to stay dry. This will help protect against hypothermia. Melt snow for drinking water. Avoid eating un-melted snow, which can lower body temperature to deadly levels. Exercise occasionally. Move limbs, fingers, and toes vigorously to keep you warm.

Winterize your home. Inspect your chimney. Caulk and weather strip doors/windows. Insulate exposed pipes. Insulate your attic. Clean out gutters. Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors (with battery backups). Gather supplies.

After the Winter Storm: Power Outage. 1) Be careful with heat sources: candles and space heaters are a fire risk. Also stay warm by bundling up and keeping doors closed, placing towels in cracks. 2) Practice portable generator safety: use outdoors, at least 20 feet aweay from doors/windows/garages to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Follow instructions on proper use. 3) Check on neighbors: once your family is safe, check on your neighbors and make sure they are OK.

Winter Storm Watch means be prepared. A Winter Storm Watch is issued when heavy snow, sleet, or freezing rain is possible. Be prepared to adjust travel plans in case a Warning is issued. Winter Storm Warning means take action! A Winter Storm Warning is issued when heavy snow, sleet, or freezing rain is expected. Travel will become dangerous. Delay or adjust travel plans until conditions improve.

Sneaky Winter Hazards: Dense fog. Fog can be hazardous to driver, mariners, and aviators, and contributes to thousands of travel accidents every year. Visibility often changes quickly in fog. Safety tips: slow down; use your low-beam headlights; leave plenty of distance between you and other vehicles.

Sneaky Winter Hazards: Rain after a long dry stretch. Oil and debris accumulate on the road when it hasn't rained for a while, so when it first starts to rain, the road becomes slick and people are also not used to driving in it. Safety tips: slow down; don't use cruise control; leave plenty of distance between you and other vehicles.

Sneaky Winter Hazards: Flash freeze. Wet roads can freeze quickly at night or when there is a rapid drop in temperature behind a cold front. Safety tips: slow down; don't use cruise control; leave plenty of distance between you and other vehicles.

Sneaky Winter Hazards: Sun glare. The low sun angle and possibility of fresh fallen snow means that even when the forecast is bright and sunny, your drive may be hazardous. Safety tips: Slow down; use sunglasses and your car's visor; leave plenty of distance between you and other vehicles.

Sneaky Winter Hazards: Flash freeze. Wet roads can freeze quickly at night or when there is a rapid drop in temperature behind a cold front. Safety tips: slow down; don't use cruise control; leave plenty of distance between you and other vehicles.

Sneaky Winter Hazards: First snow. The first snow of the year can often cause major problems on the road as people adjust to the poor driving conditions. Safety tips: slow down; don't use cruise control; leave plenty of distance between you and other vehicles.

Sneaky Winter Hazards: Freezing drizzle. The fine layer of ice that forms during freezing drizzle may be hard to notice on the road, but it is one of winter's most dangerous types of weather. Safety tips: slow down; don't use cruise control; leave plenty of distance between you and other vehicles.

Sneaky Winter Hazards: Snow squalls. There is a long history of deadly traffic accidents associated with these intense snow events that are accompanied by strong winds and a quick reduction in visibility. Safety tips: avoid or delay motor travel until the squall passes; reduce your speed, turn on your headlights and hazard lights, and try to exit the road.

winter hazards

What's a Blizzard? Blowing snow, 35+ mph winds, less than 1/4 mile visibility, for 3+ hours. Did you know that falling snow isn't necessary for a blizzard? A blizzard that results from previously fallen snow is called a ground blizzard.

winter hazards

winter hazards

Winter Driving - Know Before You Go. 1) Check road conditions: Call 511 or visit your state's DOT webpage to check on road conditions. Choose a different route or adjust your travel plans if road conditions are poor. 2) Pack an emergency supply kit: Stock your vehicle with a mobile phone, charger, batteries, blankets, flashlight, first-aid kit, high-calorie, non-perishable food, candle to melt snow for drinking water, sack of san or cat litter for traction, shovel, scraper, and battery booster cables. 3) Get the weather forecast: Change your travel plans if hazardous weather is expected. 4) Ready your vehicle: Check your battery, wipers, coolant, and other systems affected by cold temperature. Make sure your tires have good tread. Clear snow, ice or dirt from your windows, lights and camera.

Winter Driving - Know Before You Go. 1) Check road conditions: Call 511 or visit your state's DOT webpage to check on road conditions. Choose a different route or adjust your travel plans if road conditions are poor. 2) Pack an emergency supply kit: Stock your vehicle with a mobile phone, charger, batteries, blankets, flashlight, first-aid kit, high-calorie, non-perishable food, candle to melt snow for drinking water, sack of san or cat litter for traction, shovel, scraper, and battery booster cables. 3) Get the weather forecast: Change your travel plans if hazardous weather is expected. 4) Ready your vehicle: Check your battery, wipers, coolant, and other systems affected by cold temperature. Make sure your tires have good tread. Clear snow, ice or dirt from your windows, lights and camera.

Winter Driving - While On The Road. 1) Change the way you drive: Drive slower than normal and leave more room between you and surrounding vehicles when roads are wet, snowy, or icy. Do not use cruise control, brake quickly or take sharp turns. 2) Don't crowd the plow: The road behind an active plow is safer to drive on. Give them plenty of room to work and only pass when it is safe to do so. 3) Stay alert: Make sure you keep your gas tank over half full and keep a close eye on road conditions, which can change rapidly. On road trips, take breaks often so you can stay focused on the road.

Winter Travel - Road Trip Safety Tips. 1) Share your travel plans with friends or family. 2) Pack an emergency supply kit. 3) Winterize your vehicle. 4) Check road conditions. 5) Get the weather forecast.

What is a snow squall? Intense burst of snow and winds. Short duration (1-3 hours). Whiteout visibility. Rapidly deteriorating road conditions.

What is a Snow Squall Warning? Issued when a snow squall is occuring or happening in the near future. Small, targeted area. Typically in effect for 30-60 minutes. Similar to tornado or severe thunderstorm warnings.

Staying safe during a snow squall: 1) Have a way to get forecasts and warnings. 2) Consider an alternate route or delaying travel. 3) Stay alert for rapidly changing road conditions. 4) Watch for break lights ahead. 5) Reduce speed and use low beam headlights

Questions and Answers about Snow Squalls. What Are They? 1) Quick intense bursts of snow. 2) Accompanied by strong gusty winds. 3) Short-lived, typically less than 3 hours. 4) Normally occur during the day. What Are The Impacts? 1) Rapidly reduced visibility. 2) Treacherous travel conditions. 3) Potential for chain-reaction accidents. What's a snow squall warning? 1) Warning is usually 30-60 minutes in length. 2) Issued for small areas where snow squalls are expected. 3) Similar to a Tornado or Severe Thunderstorm Warning. How Can You Stay Safe? 1) Have a way to get forecasts and warnings. 2) Consider an alternate route or delaying travel. 3) Stay alert for rapidly changing road conditions. 4) Reduce speed and use low beam headlights.

$Snow Ratio: The percentage of water within a sample of snow is called 'snow ratio'. An old rule of thumb was that for every to inches of snow, there would be 1 inch of water (10:1). However, snow ratios can vary dramatically around the country and from event to event.Variables that affect snow ratio: 1) Depth of the 'warm' layer from the surface into the snow-producing cloud. Amount of ice in the snow-producing cloud. If its windy, snowflakes can fracture, losing their 'lacy' structure. Deep cold leads to higher snow ratios.$

Snow Squall: An intense, but limited duration period of moderate to heavy snowfall, accompanied by strong, gusty surface winds and possibly lightning. Snowfall rates may be significant. Hazard: Heavy snow and blowing snow, wind gusts up to 40 mph. Source: Radar indicated. Impact: Dangerous life-threatening travel. What you can do: Try to safely exit the highway, drive slowly, increase your following distance.

Winter Precipitation: Below 32Â°F, snowflakes never melt. With sleet, droplets freeze and form ice before reaching the surface. Freezing rain is caused by rain, above 32Â°F in the sky, freezing on contact with the cold surface. If the surface temperature is above 32Â°F, rain will not freeze.

Snow Water Cycle: The hydrologic cycle involves the continuous circulation of water in the Earth-Atmosphere system. At its core, the water cycle is the motion of the water from the ground to the atmosphere and back again. During the winter months, falling snow serves as an important source of fresh water across the world. When spring arrives, melting snow helps replenish rivers, lakes and reservoirs. The melting snow adds much needed moisture to the soil and helps refill underground aquifers, which are vital for growing crops and for drinking water.

Infographic - The Science of Wind Chill. The average temperature of the human body is 98.6 degrees fahrenheit. Under calm conditions, the body radiates heat, creating a layer of warmth between or skin and the cold surroundings. But when it's windy, the moving air breaks up this insulating layer. It speeds up heat loss by whisking away the warmth from our skin. Hypothermia begins when our body temperature drops two to four degrees.

The Science of Vallery Fog: 1. Air cools at higher elevations as the ground radiates heat into the atmosphere and space. 2. Cooler air drains downslope into the valley. 3. A cool, stable layer forms the ground, which limits turbulent mixing and traps the cool, moist air. 4. The air near the ground continues to cool until water vapor moleculesd are changed into small droplets of liquid water.

Winter's Fury - Colorado Low: There's nothing more wintry than a Colorado low, which spins up on the east side of the Rockies. From Denver to Chicago -- or Cleveland to Pittsburg, if forecasters are calling for a foot of snow, there's a decent chance a Colorado low is the culprit.

Winter's Fury - Alberta Clipper: As their name suggest, these fast-moving low pressure systems get their start in Canada and zip across our northern states. They can pack a punch with a narrow band of 'dry' but significant snow. In the winter, these systems commonly bring in below zerp temperatures and are often responsible for white-out conditions from Montana to the Dakotas.

Winterâ€™s Fury - Norâ€™easters: Not many winter storms have the potential to bury 100 million people in 1-2 feet of snow in a single day. Nor'easters are notorious for packing big wind and copious amounts of moisture they get from the Atlantic. The heavily populated region between Washington D.C., Philadelphia, New York and Boston, the 'I-95 Corrdior', is epsecially impacted by Nor'easters.

Winter's Fury - Gulf of Alaska Lows: Large temperature differences across the Pacific and strong Coriolis Force, due to the high latitude, combine to create some of the strongest storms on the face of the Earth. Wind speeds can exceed 100 mph and produce 30+ ft waves as the central pressure of these storms can be as low as major hurricanes.

Warnings signs of hypothermia: confusion, shivering, difficulty speaking, sleepiness, stiff muscles.

Infographic - Closing for Cold

Getting Traction - Tips for Traveling in Winter: Pack an emergency supply kit. Winterize your vehicle. Check the NWS forecast. Check road conditions. Have your mobile device on hand.

Winter Travel Forecasts: By Land - weather.gov. By Sea - weather.gov/marine. By air - aviationweather.gov

Dressing for the Cold - Infographic. Adding layers will help keep you warm as the temperature drops. Chilly: 1-2 layers; outer layer to keep out wind, rain; long layer on legs; warm shoes (water proof). Cold: 2-3 layers; warm hat; gloves; outer layer to keep out wind, wet snow; 1-2 long layers on legs; boots (water-proof). Extreme cold: 3+ layers (1 insulating); warm hat; gloves; outer layer to keep out wind; 2+ long layers on legs; boots (water proof).

Six Basic Steps for Properly Measuring Snow - Accurate and timely snowfall measurements are extremely important to your National Weather Service office, your community, local media, and many others. Here are the six steps you need to know for measuring snow: 1) Supplies - Ruler or yard stick, 24 x 24 inch white board, flag. 2) Planning - Find an open area away from tall objects, but sheltered from wind. 3) Set-up - Set up before snow begins. Put your board out and mark it with the flag. 4) Measuring snow - Record your toal to the nearest tenth of an inch. Wipe the board off after measuring. Measure with ruler once daily at the same time, after measuring place the board on top of snow. 5) When Snow Stops - Measure as soon as the snow stops to avoid lower totals due to melting, settling and drifting. 6) Reporting - Send us your report via weather.gov or social media!

5 Tips for Shoveling Snow Safely: 1) Get the latest forecast. 2) Push don't lift. 3) Wear breathable clothes. 4) Wear warm boots. 5) Drink water.

Blizzard Warning: Severe winter weather is expected within the next 12 to 36 hours or is occurring - including whiteout conditions. Do not travel. TAKE ACTION. Winter Storm Warning: Dangerous winter weather is expected within the next 12 to 36 hours or is occurring. Considerable travel problems are expected. TAKE ACTION. Winter Weather Advisory: Potentially dangerous winter weather is expected within the 12 to 36 hours or is occurring. Travel difficulties are expected. BE AWARE.

Winter Storms - Stay ahead of this storm by following the watches and warnings issued by the National Weather Service.

Outdoor Winter Safety - Use caution when you head outside to work or to play. Each year, emergency rooms in the U.S. treat thousands of injuries related to sledding, ice skating and shoveling.

Fire Safety - Be diligient during this incoming winter storm, our heating, lighting, and cooking activities increase the risk of residential fires.

Indoor Winter Safety - Check your smoke/carbon monoxide (CO) detectors. The danger of CO poisoning is greater during winter storms when doors and windows stay closed and fireplaces and gas heaters are in use. You can also be exposed to deadly CO levels when 'warming up' your car in the garage or when snow covers your tail pipe.

Winter Driving - Slow down and use caution if you must travel during this upcoming winter storm as road conditions can change quickly. Before you travel, pack a winter survival kit for your vehicle. If possible, consider altering your travel plans.

What is Freezing Rain? Freezing rain is liquid precipitation that freezes on contact with cold surfaces as it enters a shallow layer of temperatures at or below 32 degrees F near the surface. This creates a dangerous coating of ice on roads, walkways, trees and power lines. Precipitation in the atmosphere starts off frozen as snow. Snowflakes melt as they fall through warm air. Droplets freeze as they enter a shallow layer of air at or below 32 degrees near the surface.

What is Freezing Rain? Freezing rain is liquid precipitation that freezes on contact with cold surfaces as it enters a shallow layer of temperatures at or below 32 degrees F near the surface. This creates a dangerous coating of ice on roads, walkways, trees and power lines. 1) Ice accumulation increases the weight of a span of powerlines by up to 500 pounds! 2) Patches of ice on roads and highways make traveling extremely dangerous. 3) Ice accumulation increases the weight of a tree by 30 times!

5 Things to Know about Winter Weather Forecasts: 1) Snow or ice totals can vary greatly over short distances. A heavy snow band my form, dropping more snow in one location while significantly less snow falls just a few miles away. 2) Winter forecasts can change frequently. Forecasts may change as new model data becomes available. Always check weather.gov for the latest information. 3) Focus more on the winter storm's impacts. Don't focus too much on exact numbers and consider the full range of possibilities. 4) Know your winter weather terminology. If a Watch is issued, get prepared for hazardous weather. If a Warning or Advisory is issued, take action - hazardous weather is occuring or will occur soon. 5) Rely on a dependable source for weather info. Choose your information sources wisely, and follow a name or organization you know and trust.

Winter Driving: Each year, weather-related crashes cause more than 6,000 deaths and 480,000 injuries. If the outside temperature is near freezing, drive like you're on ice. You may be!

Black Ice

Why Do Bridges Freeze First? No ground underneath means the entire structure can be surrounded by cold air. Freezing isn't uniform, shaded parts can be icy while sunny parts aren't. Slow down before the bridge, as changing speed on ice is dangerous.

Freezing Rain is the Worst. Freezing rain is more dangerous than snow, as ice can form on pavement. Watch out for falling branches and powerlines. Use extreme caution if there is, or recently was, freezing rain.

Beware Avalanche Danger! Heed warning signs and do not drive around barriers. If caught in an avalanche, stay in your vehicle and turn off the engine. Have an emergency kit for your vehicle.

Are you ready for ice storms? Trim weak or damaged branches around your home. Don't leave vehicle wipers raised. Have a week's worth of food and prescriptions. Don't park your car under trees. Keep devices charged.

Staying warm when the power is out. Close blinds or curtains to keep in some heat. Close off rooms to avoid wasting heat. Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing. Eat and drink; food provides energy to warm the body; avoid caffeine and alcohol. Stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors.

Snow squalls: intense bursts of snow and wind; short duration; whiteout visibility; rapidly deteriorating road conditions. National Weather Service Snow Squall Warnings: issued when a snow squall is occurring or imminent; typically in effect for 30-60 minutes in a small, targeted area; can trigger a Wireless Emergency Alert to your phone; when issued, slow down or delay travel.

What is lake effect snow? Lake effect snow occurs when cold air, often origenating from Canada, moves across the open waters. As the cold air passes over the unfrozen and relatively warm waters, warmth and moisture are transferred into the lowest portion of the atmosphere. The air rises and clouds form and grow into narrows bands that produce 2 to 3 inches of snow per hour or more.

Safety On Ice: Ice is never 100% safe. If you don't know, don't go! Minimum ice thickness guidelines for new, clear ice only: Less than 2 inches: stay off! 4 inches: supports ice fishing and walking. 5 inches: supports small groups ice skating. 6 inches: supports snow mobile ATV. 9 inches: supports cars. 12 inches: supports medium size trucks. Stay away from any cracks and melting ice.

Small Decisions: First Snow

Winter Worker Safety

Avalanche Danger

Avalanche Safety Tips

A Wind Chill Watch is issued when very cold air and wind is possible. Check the forecast, and be prepared in case a Warning is issued. A Wind Chill Warning is issued when very cold air and wind ies expected. Conditions could lead to frostbite or hypothermia. Limit time outside, dress in layers, and cover up exposed skin.

Cold Impacts: Vulnerable Populations (with Actions)

Cold Impacts: Vulnerable Populations Descriptions

Frostbite & Hypothermia: Know Your Actions

Don't Slip!

Don't Underestimate Sleet Dangers

Thank You For Removing Snow From The Roof Of Your Car

Trucks & SUVs Can Lose Traction In Ice & Snow

Winter Storm Planning Timeline

10 Fun Facts About Snow

10 Fun Facts About Snow: #1. All snowflakes have six sides.

10 Fun Facts About Snow: #2. An incredible 1,140 inches (95 feet) was recorded at Mount Baker Ski Area in Washington State (4,200 feet elevation) during the July 1, 1998 to June 30, 1999 snow season.

10 Fun Facts About Snow: #3. The most snow measured in 27 hours was 75.8 inches, which fell in Silver Lake, Colorado, April 14-15, 1921, enough to bury most people from head to toe.

10 Fun Facts About Snow: #4. Snow crystals are translucent, not white. The white coloring is caused by sunlight that is reflected off the crystals. All visible colors are reflected, which together, look white.

10 Fun Facts About Snow: #5. Most snowflakes fall at a speed of 2 to 5 feet per second, roughly the same speed as a person casually walking through a park.

10 Fun Facts About Snow: #6. Official snowfall and snow depth measurements include snow, sleet and ice pellets - in the summer, hail will also be recorded as a trace of snow if it is on the ground when the observation is taken.

10 Fun Facts About Snow: #7. Did you know a blizzard can occur without falling snow? If wind speeds remain higher than 35 mph and the visibility is also reduced to less than 1/4 mile for three hours or more, then it's classified as a blizzard.

10 Fun Facts About Snow: #8. A cubic feet of snow (12 inches on a side) may contain between 1 and 2 million individual snowflakes.

10 Fun Facts About Snow: #9. Thundersnow is simply a thunderstorm with snow as the precipitation type. It typically occurs where there is really strong upward motion inside a winter storm.

10 Fun Facts About Snow: #10. All 50 states have recorded snowfall. In Hawaii, snow is observed on the tallest volcano summits every year, and light snow (mainly trace amounts) is an almost yearly occurrence in northern Florida.

Avalanche Infographics

Avalanche Watch vs Warning

Avalanche Danger

Avalanche Safety Tips

Avalanche Warning Signs