Some of the most significant power outages in recent years have been caused by extreme cold and severe winter storms. But with early planning and preparation, you can help protect what matters most before the winds howl and the snow flies.
Winter storm conditions are possible within 48 hours or less. Although a watch doesn’t guarantee your area will be impacted, it’s best to act now. Get any last-minute supplies and assemble emergency kits.
Winter storm conditions are occurring or about to occur. Finish your preparations now. Remain indoors – be sure to bring in any outdoor pets – and stay off the roads as much as possible.
Blizzard conditions are occurring or expected in the next 12 to 18 hours. Increased winds and potentially heavy or drifting snow will begin to make preparing your home more difficult – even dangerous.
Wetter-than-average conditions are most likely over Montana, and above-average precipitation is also favored in northern and western Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, the Northern Plains, the Great Lakes region and Ohio River Valley.
With heavy snow, significant accumulation on power lines can cut off electricity or communications, and can make travel extremely treacherous.
Below-average temperatures are slightly favored from the Pacific Northwest to the Northern Plains and western Great Lakes region. Below-average temperatures are also slightly favored across southern Alaska. The probabilities are strongest across Montana, North Dakota and northern Minnesota.
Even without snow or ice, extreme cold can cause pipes to freeze, damage property and can pose a significant health threat to anyone outdoors or in an unheated home.
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With freezing rain and ice storms can come significant property damage, loss of critical infrastructure operations and, more importantly, loss of life.
According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), an ice storm is a freezing rain event (rain that freezes on surface contact with accumulations of ¼” or more). While extreme cold and severe winter weather can affect virtually anyone around the US, this FEMA National Risk Index assesses the potential impact ice storms pose to your location.
As a leader in backup power solutions for more than 65 years, we’ve helped millions of people at home, at work and everywhere in between prep for unexpected outages ahead of time.
 Clear debris inside, outside and around the generator, ensuring at least 3 ft. clearance. Replace dirty or damaged air filter. Inspect lines and connections for fuel or oil leaks.
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Check battery for proper charge and clean any corrosion on the terminals. Check spark plugs and re-gap or replace if they're out of tolerance. Set up a maintenance check with your local dealer before demand increases. |
