Winter weather guide
Everything you need to know to stay safe during winter season. Learn about precipitation types, weather alerts and how to prepare.
🌨️ Why don't we always see snow?
Types of winter precipitation
The temperature in different layers of the atmosphere determines what type of precipitation reaches the ground. Although it always starts as snow in the clouds, what we receive depends on air conditions between the cloud and the surface.
Snow
Ice crystals fall through cold air all the way to the ground, maintaining their shape.
All air < 32°FSleet
Snow melts in a warm layer then refreezes into ice pellets before reaching the ground.
Warm layer + cold belowFreezing Rain
Snow melts completely and falls as rain that freezes on contact with cold surfaces.
Surface < 32°FRain
Snow melts in a warm layer and stays liquid because air near the ground is also warm.
All warm > 32°F⚠️ Winter alert types
Blizzard Warning
ExtremeThe most dangerous winter storm. Strong winds with snow create near-zero visibility.
Winter Storm Warning
SevereDangerous winter conditions expected with heavy snow, ice or combination.
Ice Storm Warning
SevereSignificant ice accumulation that can cause power outages and make roads impassable.
Wind chill Warning
DangerousExtreme cold combined with wind. Frostbite can occur within minutes.
Winter Weather Advisory
ModerateWinter conditions that will cause inconveniences. Use caution when traveling.
Freeze Warning
ModerateSub-freezing temperatures that can damage plants and freeze exposed pipes.
🛡️ Safety recommendations
At home
- Keep heating at minimum 65°F (18°C)
- Never use generators or grills indoors
- Let faucets drip to prevent frozen pipes
- Keep extra blankets and warm clothes accessible
- Install carbon monoxide detectors
- Charge all devices before the storm
- Have flashlights and battery radio ready
On the road
- Reduce speed and increase following distance
- Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns
- Carry emergency kit: blankets, water, snacks
- If stranded, stay in your vehicle
- Keep exhaust pipe clear of snow
- Fill gas tank before traveling
- Tell someone your route and estimated time
At school
- Check school closures before leaving
- Dress children in layers of clothing
- Ensure they have hats, gloves and boots
- Pack extra snacks and water in backpack
- Establish an emergency pickup plan
- Teach children about cold weather safety
- Know school policies for storms
📦 Winter emergency kit
🏠 For home
- Water (1 gallon/person/day, 3 days)
- Non-perishable food
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- Battery or crank radio
- First aid kit
- Medications (7 days)
- Blankets and warm clothes
🚗 For vehicle
- Ice scraper and brush
- Small shovel
- Sand or salt
- Jumper cables
- Emergency blankets
- Flashlight and flares
- Phone charger
⚡ Home preparation
- Insulate exposed pipes
- Check heating system
- Seal windows and doors
- Trim dangerous branches
- Disconnect hoses
- Know water shutoff
- Have extra fuel
📚 Additional information
🌡️ Wind chill
Wind chill is the temperature your body feels when wind accelerates heat loss.
- 0°F + 15 mph wind = -19°F feels like
- At -25°F: frostbite in 15 min
🏥 Warning signs
Hypothermia: Shivering, confusion, drowsiness
Frostbite: White/gray skin, numbness, waxy texture
⚠️ Seek immediate medical attention
📱 Stay informed
- Enable emergency alerts on your phone
- Follow Canal Meteo for updates
- Check radar frequently
- Have battery radio as backup
📡 Monitor weather live
Access our real-time tools to stay safe during winter weather.
Information sources
Information based on recommendations from NOAA/National Weather Service, Ready.gov and the American Red Cross.