Heavy Lake Effect Snow Downwind of Lakes Erie and Ontario; Fire Weather Concerns in the Southern Plains and Southeast

A multi-day heavy lake effect snow event is expected downwind of Lakes Erie and Ontario through New Year's Day. There is increasing confidence in snow squalls causing bursts of snow & gusty winds on New Year's Eve. Elevated fire weather conditions will continue today over parts of the Southern Plains and across much of the Southeast U.S. Read More >

Wyoming Winter Weather Awareness Day

Driving Safety

Driving safety is key in the winter as this picture of an accident in Riverton demonstrates.

70% of injuries related to ice and snow
result from vehicle accidents.

Plan your travel and check the latest weather forecast and delay travel if necessary.
Check Road Conditions by dialing 511 or by visiting the Wyoming Department of Transportation's website
Fully check and winterize your vehicle before the winter season begins.
Keep your gas tank near full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines.
Avoid traveling alone and tell someone of your intended travel plans and route.
Let someone know your timetable and primary and alternate routes.

If you get stuck on a snowy road, or your car slides off the road, the following guidelines will help you decide what course of action to take.

Stay in vehicle:

You will become quickly disoriented in wind-driven snow and cold.
Run the motor about 10 minutes each hour for heat.
Open the window a little for fresh air to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
Make sure the exhaust pipe is not blocked.
Be visible to rescuers:
Turn on the dome light at night when running the engine.
Tie a colored cloth, preferably red, to your antenna or door.
After snow stops falling, raise the hood to indicate you need help.
Exercise:

From time to time, move arms, legs, fingers and toes vigorously to keep blood circulating and to keep warm.

AVOID OVEREXERTION, such as shoveling heavy snow, pushing a car or walking in deep snow. The strain from the cold and the hard labor may cause a heart attack. Sweating could lead to a chill and hypothermia.

Winter Storm Survival Kit:

Sand or cat litter
Ice scraper/brush
Small shovel
Tin can (to melt snow for water)
Waterproof matches
High-calorie, non-perishable food
(peanuts, hard candy, and raisins)
Blankets/sleeping bags
Flashlight with extra batteries
First aid kit
Essential medicines
Knife
Extra clothing to keep dry

Toilet tissue
Large empty can for emergency toilet
Paper towels
Tool kit
Tow rope/chain
Battery cables
Water
Compass
Road maps
Candles
Bright cloth (red)
Mobile phone, charger, batteries

Additional Information

Some of the pages listed below are in a PDF format. To view these files Download Adobe Reader

Winter Safety: National Website | WY Winter Safety Brochure | Winter Storms: Deceptive Killers | Winter Safety Info (Red Cross)

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Heavy Lake Effect Snow Downwind of Lakes Erie and Ontario; Fire Weather Concerns in the Southern Plains and Southeast

Wyoming Winter Weather Awareness Day - Driving Safety