National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

Critical Fire Weather in Southern New England; Heavy Rain and Mountain Snow for the Northwestern U.S.

Red Flag Warnings have been remain in effect today for southern New England due to more critical fire weather from gusty winds and dry fuels. An Atmospheric River will bring a marginal risk for heavy to excessive low elevation rain and mountain snow to the Pacific Northwest and northern California today into at least Thursday night. Read More >

 
 

2014

Texas Winter Weather Awareness Day

November 12

 
 

With Winter and the holiday travel season approaching, now is the time to prepare yourself, your vehicle, and your home for the cold weather.

Car on LiftVehicle Preparedness and Safety

Red Check Plan your travel and check the latest forecasts. Avoid winter storms whenever possible.

Red Check Fully check and winterize your vehicle before starting your travel.

Red Check Let someone know your timetable and your primary and alternate travel routes.

Red Check Keep your gas tank near full to prevent ice from forming in the fuel lines.

Red Check If you encounter sleet or freezing rain, drive extremely cautiously. Even 4-wheel drive vehicles will have difficulty on icy roads.

Red Check If you are planning travel into an area which experiences significant winter storms, carry a winter storm survival kit including blankets, flashlight, high-calorie snack foods, sand, tow rope, booster cables, and a water container.

Winter Clothing Dressing for the Weather

Red Check Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing in several layers.

Red Check Outer garments should be tightly-woven and water-repellant.

Red Check Wear a hat. Nearly half of your body heat loss is from the top of your head.

Red Check Wear gloves or mittens (mittens which are snug at the wrist are better than gloves).

Red Check Try to stay dry. Remove layers of clothing to prevent perspiration and subsequent chill.

House Preparing Your Home

Red Check The primary concerns are the potential loss of power and telephone service. If winter weather conditions last for more than a day, then a shortage of supplies may also be a concern.

Red Check Have a flashlight and extra batteries available. Don’t use candles if the electricity goes out.

Red Check Use a battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio and a portable radio to receive emergency information.

Red Check If you have a fireplace or wood stove, make sure you have a good supply of firewood. Learn to use any emergency heating sources properly, to prevent a fire.

Red Check Keep extra medicine, baby items, and first-aid supplies on hand.

Red Check Close off unneeded rooms and place towels or rags in cracks under the doors.