Winter storms, snow, windchill, frost, ice and extreme cold are a coast-to-coast threat to the United States and its territories. Even Hawaii gets snow on its Big Island and frost is a major threat to crops in Southern states. Major cities as far south as Atlanta and Dallas have been paralyzed by snow and ice. And, the Commerce Department’s National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) wants you to be prepared. 

December 1st marked the beginning of meteorological winter. Frigid temperatures, heavy snow, icy roads, strong winds, flooding and more can make winter particularly dangerous. Make sure you and your loved ones are prepared for the hazardous weather this winter will bring by checking out the National Weather Service's Winter Safety Web site at their  Winter Preparedness page.  This page is designed to teach you how to stay safe in a winter storm or in abnormally cold weather for your area. If you know what to do before, during, and after a winter event, you can increase your chances of survival.

On this site, you will find:

• Information on winter alerts, knowing the difference between a Winter Warning and a Winter Watch;
• Winter safety, what to do before, during and after a winter storm;
• Winter storm hazards and winter driving;
• Educational materials including snow coverage maps, how to deal with extreme cold, ice and frost, a polar vortex and nor’easters.

In addition, NOAA needs everyone’s help in building a Weather-Ready Nation this winter. Businesses should educate their employees and stakeholders on the hazards in your area by posting safety messages on your social media platforms and promoting the Winter Safety Campaign . Everyone is encouraged to use these resources throughout the winter season. Together we can encourage communities, businesses, and individuals to know their risks, take action, and be an example to others.