National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

Severe Thunderstorm Threat From the Central Plains to the Northeast; Extreme HeatRisk for the East Coast

Strong to severe thunderstorms are possible from the central Plains to the Northeast through this evening. Widespread damaging winds are the primary threat but hail and a tornado or two is also possible. Extremely dangerous heat continues across the Eastern U.S. Warm overnight low temperatures will provide little to no relief. 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.