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Social Media: Winter Storms

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Social Media: Winter Storms (Spring)
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Please help the National Weather Service spread these important safety messages on social media! Everyone is welcome to use the text and images provided below to help the NWS build a Weather-Ready Nation.

The 4 P's

Facebook
Prepared for a possible polar plunge? As temperatures drop, remember to protect the 4 P’s: People, pets, pipes, and plants. weather.gov/safety/cold

Twitter
Prepared for a possible polar plunge? As temperatures drop, remember to protect the 4 P’s: People, pets, pipes, and plants. weather.gov/safety/cold
#WeatherReady

Protect people, pets, pipes and plants from cold weather. People: 1) Minimize time outdoors. 2) Prepare for power outages. 3) Check on the elderly and other vulnerable people to make sure they're ok. Pets: 1) Keep your pets warm, dry and indoors as much as possible. 2) Ensure their food and water doesn't freeze. 3) Limit outside time and keep them bundled up. Pipes: 1) Insulate pipes if possible. 2) Open up sink cabinets to expose pipes to heated air. 3) Disconnect hoses & turn off water to sprinklers. Plants: 1) Know their temperature thresholds. 2) If possible, cover them before the cold weather sets in to help retain some heat.

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Frostbite & Hypothermia - Know Your Actions

Facebook
Cold outside? Avoid the risk of frostbite and hypothermia by dressing in layers, covering exposed skin, and limiting time outdoors. If someone might be experiencing either condition, seek medical attention immediately — and know your actions. weather.gov/safety/cold-during

Twitter
Cold outside? Avoid the risk of frostbite and hypothermia by dressing in layers, covering exposed skin, and limiting time outdoors. If someone might be experiencing either condition, seek medical attention immediately — and know your actions. weather.gov/safety/cold-during

If someone might have frostbite or hypothermia, seek medical attention immediately! Get to a warm area. Remove wet clothing. Warm up with dry layers of blankets or clothing. Place skin affected by frostbite in warm water (not hot). Frostbite caution: do not use fireplaces or artificial heat sources for warming. Do not rub or put pressure on areas with frostbite.

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Slippery Sidewalks

Facebook
Slipping on an icy sidewalk can lead to serious injuries or even death, especially for the elderly. Help prevent the formation of ice by salting walkways and turning off sprinklers in advance of cold weather.
Learn more ice safety at weather.gov/safety/winter-ice-frost

Twitter
Slipping on an icy sidewalk can lead to serious injuries or even death, especially for the elderly. Help prevent the formation of ice by salting walkways and turning off sprinklers in advance of cold weather.
Learn more ice safety at weather.gov/safety/winter-ice-frost #WeatherReady

Don’t slip! Icy surfaces can lead to serious injuries! Help prevent ice by salting walkways and turning off sprinklers in advance of the cold. Walk on treated or non-icy surfaces with better traction, if possible. Wear proper winter footwear with rubber treads. Take slow, short steps so that you’ll be able to react to icy conditions.

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Don’t Underestimate Sleet

Facebook
Sleet can be deceptively dangerous - it’s much more dense than snow, so take it easy when shoveling.
Use extreme caution when driving during or after sleet. Reduce speed, allow plenty of stopping distance, and do not use cruise control.
Learn more winter safety at weather.gov/safety/winter

Twitter
Sleet can be deceptively dangerous - it’s much more dense than snow, so take it easy when shoveling.
Use extreme caution when driving during or after sleet. Reduce speed, allow plenty of stopping distance, and do not use cruise control.
weather.gov/safety/winter #WeatherReady

Don’t underestimate sleet dangers! Take it easy when shoveling. Sleet can be much more dense than snow. Go slowly and don’t overexert yourself. Use extreme caution when driving. Sleet can cause dangerous road conditions and reduced visibility. Reduce speed, allow plenty of stopping distance, and do not use cruise control.

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Cold Impacts: Vulnerable Populations

Facebook
Everyone is at risk from the dangers of extreme cold, but these groups are more vulnerable than most. Age and certain conditions make the body less able to regulate temperature.
Stay Weather-Ready and learn more about cold safety at weather.gov/safety/cold

Twitter
Everyone is at risk from the dangers of extreme cold, but these groups are more vulnerable than most. Age and certain conditions make the body less able to regulate temperature.
Stay #WeatherReady and learn more about cold safety at weather.gov/safety/cold

Cold Impacts: Vulnerable Populations: Everyone is at risk from the dangers of extreme cold, but these groups are more vulnerable than most: newborns, the elderly, people with chronic illness, outdoor workers, and the unhoused. Age and certain conditions make the body less able to regulate temperature. Dress in loose layers and cover all exposed skin. Consume hot foods and warm drinks, but avoid caffeine and alcohol. Limit or avoid time outdoors. Check on family, friends and neighbors.

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Winter Storm Planning Timeline

Facebook
Are you prepared for a winter storm? If the forecast calls for winter weather, begin preparing NOW. Don’t wait until the last minute. weather.gov/safety/winter-before

Twitter
Are you prepared for a winter storm? If the forecast calls for winter weather, begin preparing NOW. Don’t wait until the last minute. weather.gov/safety/winter-before #WeatherReady

A few days out: if the forecast calls for winter weather, start preparing now. Have emergency supplies for your home & car. Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replenish fuel for your car and heating sources. The day before: forecast accuracy continues to improve, so keep checking the latest. Adjust plans. Have multiple ways to receive Warnings. Bring pets indoors and ensure they have water. During and after: remain vigilant and stay informed. Drive only if necessary. Check on neighbors and family. Properly ventilate emergency heat sources. Keep generators at least 20 feet from your home. Take it easy when shoveling.

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Ice and Snow, Take it Slow

Facebook
Winter driving can be hazardous. Slow down to keep yourself and everyone on the road safe. Remember, “Ice and snow, take it slow”. Learn more at weather.gov/safety/winter

Twitter
Do your part to keep everyone safe on the roads this winter. Learn more at weather.gov/safety/winter
#WeatherReady

Ice and Snow, Take It Slow. Did you know? Each year in the United States, there are over 1,000 deaths and 100,000 injuries due to vehicle crashes during winter weather. Clean off your vehicle before driving. Flying snow from cars causes accidents. Keep it slow, and don’t use cruise control. Roads can be slick even if they just look wet. Leave extra distance between vehicles. Stay especially far from snow plows.

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Snow Squall Actions

Facebook
During a snow squall, the last place you want to be is on the road.
Delay travel if a snow squall warning is issued. If you’re caught on the road when a snow squall occurs, use extreme caution. Slow down, turn on your low-beams and hazards, and pull over safely to the side of the road, remaining in the vehicle with the seatbelt on.
weather.gov/safety/winter-snow-squall

Twitter
During a snow squall, the last place you want to be is on the road.
Stay #WeatherReady by delaying travel if there’s a snow squall warning.

If you’re caught on the road when a snow squall occurs, use extreme caution.
weather.gov/safety/winter-snow-squall

Protect yourself from snow squalls. If a Snow Squall Warning is issued, delay travel. If you’re already driving, safely exit the road at the next opportunity. If you cannot exit the road in time: Slow down, but avoid slamming the brakes. Turn on your low-beam headlights and hazard lights. Pull over safely to the side of the road, and remain in the vehicle with your seatbelt on.

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Don't Forget Your Pets

Facebook
Don't forget about your pets this winter! Make sure they have a warm, dry place to rest with plenty of food and water. weather.gov/winter

Twitter
You love your pets, so keep them warm, dry, and well fed this winter. weather.gov/winter #WeatherReady

Don’t forget your pets! Even with a natural fur coat, winter can be deadly for your pets unless proper care is given. Keep them warm and dry, and indoors whenever possible. Provide plenty of food and water. Dehydration is especially dangerous in winter. When outside, keep them bundled up. Limit outside time, and thoroughly clean, including paws, when bringing them in.

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Smart Shoveling

Facebook
Slippery sidewalks and roads aren’t the only things to look out for in late winter and early spring snow storms--shoveling snow can be a health risk as well. Remember to stay hydrated, take frequent breaks, and move only small amounts with each shovel pass. Learn more at weather.gov/winter

Twitter
Shoveling snow can be a health risk, so remember to take it easy. Learn more at weather.gov/winter #WeatherReady

Shovel smart! Shoveling heavy, wet snow can cause back injuries and heart attacks. Don’t push yourself! Dress warmly, making sure to cover your head, fingers and toes. Stay hydrated, but avoid heavy meals right before or after shoveling. Move only small amounts of snow with each pass of the shovel. Take frequent breaks. Stop shoveling entirely if you feel exhausted!

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Caught Outdoors

Facebook
When caught outdoors in a winter storm, there are life-saving actions you can take to protect yourself. Find (or make) shelter, cover exposed body parts, melt snow for drinking water, and exercise occasionally. weather.gov/safety/winter-during

Twitter
When caught outdoors in a winter storm, there are life-saving actions you can take to protect yourself. #WeatherReady
weather.gov/safety/winter-during

Caught outdoors in a winter storm? Find shelter! If there’s no shelter, build a lean-to or snow cave for protection. Build a fire for heat. Cover exposed body parts, and try to stay dry. This will help protect against hypothermia. Melt snow for drinking water. Avoid eating un-melted snow, which can lower body temperature to deadly levels. Exercise occasionally. Move limbs, fingers, and toes vigorously to keep you warm.

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Winterize Your Home

Facebook
As winter approaches, there are steps you can take to prepare your home for the cold weather ahead. Learn more at weather.gov/safety/winter

Twitter
As winter approaches, there are steps you can take to prepare your home for the cold weather ahead. Learn more at weather.gov/safety/winter

Winterize your home. Inspect your chimney. Caulk and weather strip doors/windows. Insulate exposed pipes. Insulate your attic. Clean out gutters. Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors (with battery backups). Gather supplies.

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After the Winter Storm: Power Outage

Facebook
Power outages are common after a big winter storm. If you lose power, make sure to be careful when using alternative heat sources and practice portable generator safety. Once you and your family are safe, check in with others in your neighborhood to make sure they are okay. weather.gov/safety/winter

Twitter
Power outages are common after a big winter storm. Be careful with alternative heat sources, practice portable generator safety, and check in with neighbors to ensure that everyone stays safe. weather.gov/safety/winter

After the Winter Storm: Power Outage. 1) Be careful with heat sources: candles and space heaters are a fire risk. Also stay warm by bundling up and keeping doors closed, placing towels in cracks. 2) Practice portable generator safety: use outdoors, at least 20 feet aweay from doors/windows/garages to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Follow instructions on proper use. 3) Check on neighbors: once your family is safe, check on your neighbors and make sure they are OK.

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Winter Forecasts: Hazards (Video)

Facebook
Did you know that a one or two degree temperature difference can play an important role in whether we get rain, sleet, or snow? Learn more about how we get accurate forecasts here: youtube.com/watch?v=niPqFAtq8_E

Twitter
Did you know that a one or two degree temperature difference can play an important role in whether we get rain, sleet, or snow? Learn more about how we get accurate forecasts here: youtube.com/watch?v=niPqFAtq8_E

 

Winter Forecasting: Variation (Video)

Facebook
Impacts from winter storms can vary a lot, even across short distances, and it can be difficult to pinpoint exactly which areas will be most impacted. Learn more about the Winter Storm Severity Index here: youtube.com/watch?v=u_rLZicceTc

Twitter
Impacts from winter storms can vary a lot, even across short distances, and it can be difficult to pinpoint exactly which areas will be most impacted. Learn more about the Winter Storm Severity Index here: youtube.com/watch?v=u_rLZicceTc

 

Winter Forecasting: Uncertainty (Video)

Facebook
We work hard to provide you with the most accurate forecasts possible, and our forecasts get more precise the closer we get to a big weather event. Learn more about how we update our forecasts at youtube.com/watch?v=O19o47qWdSE

Twitter
We work hard to provide you with the most accurate forecasts possible, and our forecasts get more precise the closer we get to a big weather event. Learn more about how we update our forecasts at youtube.com/watch?v=O19o47qWdSE

 

Winter Storm Watch vs Warning

Facebook
A Winter Storm WATCH means Be Prepared.
A Winter Storm WARNING means Take Action!
weather.gov/safety/winter-ww

Twitter
A Winter Storm WATCH means Be Prepared.
A Winter Storm WARNING means Take Action!
weather.gov/safety/winter-ww #WeatherReady

Winter Storm Watch means be prepared. A Winter Storm Watch is issued when heavy snow, sleet, or freezing rain is possible. Be prepared to adjust travel plans in case a Warning is issued. Winter Storm Warning means take action! A Winter Storm Warning is issued when heavy snow, sleet, or freezing rain is expected. Travel will become dangerous. Delay or adjust travel plans until conditions improve. 

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Winter Safety for Workers

Facebook
For those working outside during cold temperatures or winter weather, stay Weather-Ready and prepared. osha.gov/dts/weather/winter_weather/

Twitter
For those working outside during cold temperatures or winter weather, stay #WeatherReady and prepared. osha.gov/dts/weather/winter_weather/

Winter Safety For Workers: 1) Wear proper footwear for traction. 2) Drink a warm beverage, stay hydrated. 3) Dress in layers. 4) Take frequent short breaks. 5) Watch for signs of hypothermia. 6) Have a winter emergency supply kit in your vehicle.

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Wind Chill Watch vs Warning

Facebook
A Wind Chill WATCH means Be Prepared.
A Wind Chill WARNING means Take Action!
weather.gov/safety/cold

Twitter
A Wind Chill WATCH means Be Prepared.
A Wind Chill WARNING means Take Action!
weather.gov/safety/cold

A Wind Chill Watch is issued when very cold air and wind is possible. Check the forecast, and be prepared in case a Warning is issued. A Wind Chill Warning is issued when very cold air and wind is expected. Conditions could lead to frostbite or hypothermia. Limit time outside, dress in layers, and cover up exposed skin.

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Ice Storms

Facebook
Is your home ready for an ice storm? Ice storms can cause power outages that can last up to several days, affecting both you and the surrounding area — that’s why it’s important to have a week’s supply of food and prescriptions. What else would you need?
Ice storms can easily break tree branches, so trim weak or damaged branches around your home, and don’t park your car under trees. After you’ve parked, don’t leave your wipers raised...contrary to popular belief, doing so increases the chance of wiper damage.
Learn more about ice storm safety: weather.gov/safety/winter-ice-frost

Twitter
Is your home ready for an ice storm? Ice storms can cause power outages that can last several days and pose a threat to tree branches and anything underneath. Stay #WeatherReady and learn more about ice storm safety: weather.gov/safety/winter-ice-frost

Are you ready for ice storms? Trim weak or damaged branches around your home. Don't leave vehicle wipers raised. Have a week's worth of food and prescriptions. Don't park your car under trees. Keep devices charged.

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Staying Warm Without Power

Facebook
When the power goes out in winter, the cold can be deadly--but even without power, there are still ways to warm things up. Closing blinds and curtains and closing room doors can help contain heat, and stuffing towels in the cracks under doors can help keep the warmth in. Don’t forget about eating and staying hydrated - food provides energy to warm the body.
Learn more about winter safety: weather.gov/safety/winter

Twitter
When the power goes out in winter, the cold can be deadly. But even without power, there are still ways to warm things up. Stay #WeatherReady and learn more about winter safety: weather.gov/safety/winter

Staying warm when the power is out. Close blinds or curtains to keep in some heat. Close off rooms to avoid wasting heat. Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing. Eat and drink; food provides energy to warm the body; avoid caffeine and alcohol. Stuff towels or rags in cracks under doors.

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Safety on Ice

Facebook
Ice is never completely safe. Know how thick the ice is and stay away from any cracks or melting ice. If you don’t know, don’t go! weather.gov/safety/winter

Twitter
Ice is never completely safe. Know how thick the ice is and stay away from any cracks or melting ice. If you don’t know, don’t go! weather.gov/safety/winter #WeatherReady

Safety On Ice: Ice is never 100% safe. If you don't know, don't go! Minimum ice thickness guidelines for new, clear ice only: Less than 2 inches: stay off! 4 inches: supports ice fishing and walking. 5 inches: supports small groups ice skating. 6 inches: supports snow mobile ATV. 9 inches: supports cars. 12 inches: supports medium size trucks. Stay away from any cracks and melting ice.

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Dressing for the Cold - Infographic

Facebook
Bundling up and staying dry are two of the best things you can do to stay safe from cold temperatures this fall and winter. Learn to protect yourself from the cold at weather.gov/safety/cold

Twitter
Bundling up and staying dry are two of the best things you can do to stay safe from cold temps. Stay #WeatherReady and learn to protect yourself from the cold at weather.gov/safety/cold

Dressing for the Cold - Infographic. Adding layers will help keep you warm as the temperature drops. Chilly: 1-2 layers; outer layer to keep out wind, rain; long layer on legs; warm shoes (water proof). Cold: 2-3 layers; warm hat; gloves; outer layer to keep out wind, wet snow; 1-2 long layers on legs; boots (water-proof). Extreme cold: 3+ layers (1 insulating); warm hat; gloves; outer layer to keep out wind; 2+ long layers on legs; boots (water proof).

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Hypothermia Infographic

Facebook
If you notice someone exhibiting warning signs of hypothermia, get them to a warm place right away. Learn more about how to protect yourself from the cold at weather.gov/safety/cold

Twitter
Do you know the signs of hypothermia? weather.gov/safety/cold #WeatherReady

Warnings signs of hypothermia: confusion, shivering, difficulty speaking, sleepiness, stiff muscles.

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Cold Weather

Facebook
Cold weather can be life-threatening. If you can’t avoid being outside, remember to follow these 3 steps and make sure to always tell someone where you’re going. weather.gov/safety/cold

Twitter
Cold weather can be life-threatening, so follow these 3 steps and make sure to always tell someone where you’re going. weather.gov/safety/cold #WeatherReady

Cold weather safety tips: 1) Dress in layers. 2) Cover exposed skin. 3) Limit time outside

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Science of Wind Chill

Facebook
Extremely cold air affects millions of people across the United States every winter and even into parts of the spring. This Arctic air, together with brisk winds, can lead to dangerously cold wind chill values, which can cause your body to lose heat quickly. weather.gov/safety/cold-wind-chill-chart

Twitter
Arctic air, together with brisk winds, can lead to dangerously cold wind chill values. weather.gov/safety/cold-wind-chill-chart

Infographic - The Science of Wind Chill. The average temperature of the human body is 98.6 degrees fahrenheit. Under calm conditions, the body radiates heat, creating a layer of warmth between or skin and the cold surroundings. But when it's windy, the moving air breaks up this insulating layer. It speeds up heat loss by whisking away the warmth from our skin. Hypothermia begins when our body temperature drops two to four degrees.

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Winter’s Fury: Nor’easters

Facebook
Not many winter storms have the potential to bury 100 million people in 1-2 feet of snow in a single day. Nor’easters are notorious for packing strong winds and copious amounts of moisture they get from the Atlantic. The heavily-populated region between Washington D.C., Philadelphia, New York City, and Boston -- the “I-95 Corridor” -- is especially impacted by Nor’easters. weather.gov/safety/winter-noreaster

Twitter
Nor’easters are notorious for big wind and copious amounts of moisture they get from the Atlantic. weather.gov/safety/winter-noreaster #WeatherReady

Winter’s Fury - Nor’easters: Not many winter storms have the potential to bury 100 million people in 1-2 feet of snow in a single day. Nor'easters are notorious for packing big wind and copious amounts of moisture they get from the Atlantic. The heavily populated region between Washington D.C., Philadelphia, New York and Boston, the 'I-95 Corrdior', is epsecially impacted by Nor'easters.

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Winter Precipitation

Facebook
Will there be rain, ice, or snow? This graphic explains how having different layers of warm and cold air between the clouds and the ground determines the type of precipitation that hits the ground. nssl.noaa.gov/education/svrwx101/winter/types/

Twitter
Will there be rain, ice, or snow? Find out how wintry precipitation forms! nssl.noaa.gov/education/svrwx101/winter/types/

Winter Precipitation: Below 32°F, snowflakes never melt. With sleet, droplets freeze and form ice before reaching the surface. Freezing rain is caused by rain, above 32°F in the sky, freezing on contact with the cold surface. If the surface temperature is above 32°F, rain will not freeze.

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