Today (Monday) begins Winter Hazard Awareness Week in Minnesota.
The National Weather Service observes the week in hopes that residents will think ahead to the potential dangers of winter weather in our state, and to get prepared to prevent being caught off guard.
Today’s (Monday) focus is on Winter Storms.
The weather service urges everyone to keep ahead of storms by paying attention to the latest winter weather forecasts and warnings.
Some winter weather terminology to get used to includes Winter Storm Watches and Warnings. A watch is just that, a situation where conditions could develop into a winter storm, and everyone should pay special attention to forecasts and statements, and begin to make safety preparations. A Winter Storm Warning means winter weather conditions are imminent, and storms could contain heavy snow and wind, ice, and sleet.
Other similar terminology includes a Blizzard Warning when visibility could be reduced to less than a quarter mile for several hours.
Other winter watches and warnings are for extreme cold and wind chill.
Tomorrow’s Winter Hazard Awareness Week focus will be on Outdoor Winter Safety.
Follow the link on this story on the KRWC web site today for more information on Winter Hazard Awareness Week from the National Weather Service.
