Winter weather can pose serious risks to residents and properties. Understanding weather alerts and taking preventive steps can help reduce damage, disruptions, and emergencies.
Understanding Winter Weather Alerts
The National Weather Service issues the following alerts based on storm severity:
Winter Weather Advisory. Hazardous winter conditions are occurring or expected and may cause inconvenience.
Winter Storm Watch. Heavy snow, sleet, or freezing rain is possible within the next 12–36 hours.
Winter Storm Warning. Hazardous winter weather is imminent, occurring, or highly likely and poses a significant threat to life and property.
Blizzard Warning. Sustained winds or frequent gusts over 35 mph with visibility reduced to 1/4 mile or less for at least three hours.
Frost/Freeze Warning. Below-freezing temperatures may damage plants, crops, and plumbing. Residents without adequate heat should take extra precautions.
What You Can Do
RRHA public housing residents should prepare for inclement weather by creating a disaster kit (including water, food, medicines, a radio, a flashlight, and chargers); securing your unit; having an evacuation plan with your housing authority and neighbors; and staying informed.
FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) and NOAA (National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration) have apps that are consistently updated with reliable information.
Bottom line: be prepared for potential power outages with extra food, warmth, and essential supplies!
Before the Storm (General Preparedness)
Have an Emergency Kit: Stock a three day supply of water (one gallon per person per day), non-perishable food, batteries, flashlights, a hand-crank or battery radio, phone chargers, first aid, hygiene items, and copies of important documents.
Know Your Plan: Understand your building’s evacuation routes and designated safe spots (interior rooms, basements) for events like tornadoes; check with your housing authority.
Secure Your Unit: Bring in outdoor items (outdoor furniture, potted plants, etc.). Secure windows and clear gutters if possible, to prevent water damage.
Home Safety: Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide monitors. Consider battery-operated or hand-crank versions in case of outages.
During Winter Storms (Snow and Ice)
Stay Warm: Have extra blankets, warm clothing, and understand how to safely use alternative heat sources. Maintain temperatures at 55° F or higher.
Open vanity cabinets to expose pipes to warm air, and keep all interior doors open for airflow. Ensure your windows are closed securely.
Pipe Protection: Insulate exposed pipes in attics and basements if possible. Be prepared to shut off your water main.
Vehicle Kit: Keep blankets, water, snacks, and warm clothes in your car, as well as a shovel, scraper, and jumper cables.
During Severe Weather (Wind and Rain: Hurricanes, Tornadoes, Floods)
Stay Informed: Use the FEMA app and monitor NOAA weather radio for real-time alerts.
Evacuate if Instructed: Follow official instructions, use recommended routes, and have cash, medicines, supplies, and pet needs ready.
Protect Valuables: Document your belongings (with photos or videos) for insurance before the storm.