A Letter to our Weather Spotters



As winter approaches I would just like to take a moment and say THANK YOU to all of our weather spotters. Some of you have been serving as weather spotters for many years, while others have just begun.



Whether you have been spotting for years or months, whether you call us several times a year or just once, you should know that the information that you provide us with is invaluable. Your reports help our forecasters make real-time decisions regarding forecasts and sometimes life saving warnings. They also help us verify our weather watches and warnings. Although it is true that we have some of the best technological tools, without the ground truth reports that you provide, their usefulness would be limited.



As you read this newsletter, you will note that we have a new editor, Bonnie Terrizzi. I would like to thank Bonnie for her dedication and help. As the number of spotters continues to expand, we look forward to contributing articles from our staff. One such article is included in this issue by Hydro Meteorological Technician, Duane Wolfe, and two others by Journeyman forecaster, Mark Bloomer. As our newsletter evolves, look for more articles by our staff.



I would also like to invite you, the spotter, to consider writing an article. If you are interested, the ground rules are simple: 1) The topic must have some relationship to weather, direct or indirect and 2) Submit in an electronic format (Microsoft Word, Corel Word Perfect, or ASCII format) ... via E-mail or on a 3½" disk.



To submit via E-mail send to:



hendricus.lulofs@noaa.gov

bonnie.terrizzi@noaa.gov



or by regular mail to:



Bonnie Terrizzi

National Weather Service

810 Main Street

Caribou, ME 04736



I hope that you enjoy this issue of the Maine-ly Weather



Sincerely,



Hendricus J. Lulofs

Warning Coordination Meteorologist





Goodbye Summer









Summer ended for Maine with cooler than normal conditions over the state. Precipitation amounts were below normal as well, with the driest conditions in the more southern locations.



At the NWS Office in Caribou, 85 degrees was the warmest temperature recorded, and that only occurred once, on June 16th.



Bangor, during the summer months of June, July, and August hit a high of 89 degrees on June 17th. The hottest day was actually September the 1st when a hot 92 was recorded at the airport.



Most days during the summer in Caribou saw high temperatures in the upper 60s to mid 70s range. It was a few degrees warmer in Bangor where daytime high temperatures were mainly in the mid 70s to lower 80s.



In Caribou, high temperatures in the 80s only occurred 12 days the entire summer. In Bangor, 80s were recorded 25 days.



Precipitation varied from wetter conditions in the north, to dryer amounts towards the south.



Summer in Caribou ended with sightly above normal rainfall (0.55) for the three month period. The monthly precipitation total for June was 2.88 inches, July 4.39 inches, and August 4.27 inches, for a total of 11.54 inches. The normal summer precipitation is 10.99 inches.



In Bangor, the airport recorded 3.85 inches below normal rainfall during the summer months. June saw 2.64 inches, July 2.08 inches, and August 2.03 inches for a summer total of 6.75 inches. The yearly precipitation total in Bangor is still 2.07 inches above the normal from a wet spring.





Hello Autumn







Autumn in New England, has earned national recognition as one of nature's most amazing displays. Soon, "Leaf-Peepers" from all over the country will be visiting to enjoy some of our breath-taking vistas. The "Snow-birds" will also be making plans to head south for the winter.



Although we in Maine also enjoy watching the change of seasons, fall is the time of year to begin readying ourselves for the onset of winter. Along with the first frost and freeze usually in September, the changing of the leaves, and the return to school, it is a time of making sure that we have alternate sources of heat, and that our clothing is sufficient for the cold days that are ahead. It is a time to get the home and car winterized.



In Caribou, the longest day in June produces 15 hours and 53 minutes of daylight, down to 8 hours and 31 minutes during our shortest day in late December. As the calendar reports, the first day of fall will occur this year on September 22nd, when the length of day to night is once again equal; 12 hours each of daylight and night.



Autumn is when we are noticing this rapidity of the shortening of daylight and the slight touch of winter in the air encourages us to hurry. From this point on, days will become shorter as winter approaches. Farmers must rush to complete their harvest and to make sure that livestock have adequate shelter for the upcoming winter months.





CoOp News

Once again, just as true with our spotters, special thanks and appreciation for all the time, effort, and dedication that the co-operative observers give to help scientists and businesses better understand the weather across the region. The data collected by the co-operative network is relied on heavily in tracking the nation's climate.



Fall will mean visits to each site to get equipment ready for winter. Make sure that you let us know if you are short of any supplies, or if you have any questions about procedures for reporting winter weather. You can contact Mark Turner at 207-496-0148; extension 225, or Frank Terrizzi, extension 236, or by Email mark.turner@noaa.gov or frank.terrizzi@noaa.gov



Marine Weather



Mariners along the rocky coast of Maine have added challenges not faced by the mariners further south. Few people are affected more by weather than the mariner. An unexpected change in winds, seas, or visibility can reduce the efficiency of marine operations and threaten the safety of a vessel and its crew. The National Weather Service in Caribou is striving to make the marine forecast and warning program as accurate and as representative as possible.



The warning and forecast program is the core of the NWS's responsibility to mariners. Warnings and forecasts help the mariner plan and make decisions protecting life and property.

The advisories and warnings are issued for the following:



Small Craft Advisory: when sustained wind speeds of 25 to 33 knots are expected within 12 hours. Small Craft Advisories may also be issued for hazardous sea conditions even when wind speeds are lower. Generally any sea heights greater than 5 feet will be within Advisory criteria.



Gale Warning: is issued for forecast winds of 34 to 47 knots. Gale Warnings will be issued when these wind speeds are expected within 24 hours.



Storm Warning: when wind speeds are expected to reach 48 knots or greater within 24 hours.



Tropical Storm Warning: forecast winds of 34 to 63 knots which are associated with a tropical storm.



Hurricane Warning: forecast winds of 64 knots or higher that are associated with a hurricane.



Special Marine Warning: will be issued for potentially hazardous over-water events of a short duration (2 hours or less). These can include thunderstorms with gusty winds, waterspouts, or brief periods of strong winds associated with a frontal passage.



The National Weather Service has established a nationwide Marine Report Program (MAREP) to help improve marine warnings and forecasts. Through this cooperative effort, mariners make radio reports of sea and wind conditions to the NWS. No matter how great the satellite and radar observations are, they can never fully replace the "ground truth" reports of people. If you would like to learn more about this program, please call Hendricus Lulofs at the NWS in Caribou at 207-496-0148; extension 223.



NOAA Weather Radio: CRS



Automation of the NOAA Weather Radio of the National Weather Service continues across the entire country, including us in Maine. As the fall months continue, we expect to have all the products fully automated for both the Mars Hill and the Ellsworth transmitter sites. Currently, most products are automated with the exception of most of the warning products, which are still voice- recorded at this time.



The office in Caribou has made every effort to make the computerized voice of the radio as understandable as possible. Software will be coming sometime during the first half of 2001 that will enhance the computerized voice quality.



The transmitter on top of Mars Hill Mountain failed early in September. This transmitter was on schedule to be upgraded as it operated on vacuum-tube technology. Since it failed, the new transmitter for Mars Hill was moved ahead of schedule. We hope you noticed the improved signal quality.

We are also in the very long process of attempting to find funding to add additional transmitters to better serve the people in central and northern Maine. Possible new transmitter sites include: Milo, Washington County, and to the north, somewhere in the St. John Valley. These additional transmitters will allow the people of Maine a much better service in receiving their forecast and warning information.

More Forecast Changes: The NWS will be changing the public forecast structure from the current 5- day product, to a 7- day forecast. This change will go into effect November 16th. We will strive to make the 6th and 7th day addition to the forecast with the accuracy of today's 5 day forecast.



Climatology Corner Contributed by:

Duane Wolfe



Some of the questions that we commonly receive here at the weather office concern how the previous winter compares to the normals and winters previous; and how this coming winter looks for temperatures and snowfall. Following is a summary of last winter for both Caribou and Bangor, with an outlook for both places for this upcoming winter.



Overall, for the winter of 1999-2000, temperatures from December through March at Caribou were significantly warmer than normal while snowfall for the winter was only just slightly above normal. However, the snowfall for both January and February, although not record setters, were significantly higher than normal, accounting for better than two-thirds of our snowfall for the season. The highest recorded snowfall total for the winter at Caribou was 181.1 inches, which occurred in the 1954-55 season, while the lowest recorded snowfall total was 59.6 inches, which occurred in the 1943-44 season. For Caribou, last winter, seasonal snowfall of 112.4 inches ranked 29th out of 60 years for snowfall.

At Bangor, temperatures for both December and March were significantly above normal, but temperatures in January and February were very near normal. Overall, snowfall for Bangor last winter was below normal; ranked 39th out of 57 years. The seasonal total of 68.1 inches was measured at the airport.

Like Caribou, snowfall in January and February were significantly above normal, accounting for better than three-quarters of Bangor's seasonal total. The highest recorded snowfall total for the winter at Bangor is 181.9 inches, which occurred in the 1962-63 season; while the lowest recorded snowfall total for the winter was 22.2 inches, which occurred during the 1979-80 winter season.



Of interest, although Caribou has a significantly higher average snowfall than Bangor, Bangor's highest recorded seasonal snowfall is actually, slightly higher than Caribou's.



Below is a breakout of actual average temperatures, snowfall, and normals from December through March for both Caribou and Bangor.





CARIBOU



Avg Avg Snowfall

Max/Normal Min/Normal Actual/Normal



DEC 28.8 / 24.0 15.5 / 5.5 6.7" / 26.3" JAN 20.3 / 19.4 1.9 / -1.6 43.7" / 25.3"

FEB 25.3 / 23.0 3.7 / 0.7 32.5" / 18.8"

MAR 38.5 / 34.3 21.2 / 14.9 15.4" / 19.3"



BANGOR



Avg Avg Snowfall

Max/Normal Min/Normal Actual/Normal



DEC 37.1 / 32.5 20.5 / 15.2 2.3" / 15.0"

JAN 28.4 / 28.3 8.0 / 8.9 28.5" / 19.5" FEB 31.6 / 30.5 6.9 / 10.2 25.1" / 19.0"

MAR 44.9 / 39.8 24.8 / 21.4 11.7" / 14.0"

And finally, here is the outlook for the upcoming winter. For both Bangor and Caribou, the long range outlook from the Climatic Prediction Center (CPC) shows temperatures will remain slightly above normal from December through January. However, temperatures from February through March will be near or slightly below normal. As for precipitation, it appears both Caribou and Bangor will receive near normal precipitation.

The Snowflake Expert

Did you ever hear that no two snowflakes are alike? Did you ever wonder who decided that, or if they had actually checked all the snowflakes?



According to some estimates, there have been one octillion (that is a one, followed by 27 zeros) snowflakes that have fallen during the past century. To think that no two are alike is incredible.



Actually, in 1986, the National Center for Atmospheric Research in Boulder, Colorado, photographed two identical snowflakes, which has put to rest the old adage. But during the late 19th century, there was a man named Wilson Alwyn Bentley who developed a technique for taking pictures of snowflakes and developing the negatives. Wilson became intensely interested in snowflakes and over the next 40 years, was never able to find two that were exactly alike. Mr. Bentley was the expert who made the claim that no two snowflakes were alike.

As a side note, Mr. Bentley also took photographs of raindrops and studied dew and frost. He also measured a raindrop to determine its size by filling a pan with flour, and measuring the resultant splat. It took nearly 100 years though to prove Wilson wrong.



Secrets of Conserving Heat in the Home Contributed by:

Mark Bloomer, 2000

The frozen hinterlands of the great white north will soon be delivering another season of icy winds and bitterly cold temperatures. High oil prices this year has many folks particularly concerned about how they're going to manage heating expenses while maintaining their comfort during the coming months. However, there are some rather simple methods of conserving heat that can have a significant impact on preserving and maintaining the warmth of the home.



PRESERVING THE WARMTH OF WARM WATER



Conserving hot water is a significant way to save energy. Hot water usage can be minimized by taking shorter, and less intense showers, taking baths less frequently, and by using colder water for household cleaning.



However, it is still possible to preserve heat from any hot water which has been used by retaining the hot water until it has cooled, thereby allowing it to release its heat into the home. Water has a tremendous capacity for holding heat, and pound for pound, water can store more heat than many of the heavy metals. Specifically, the amount of energy it takes to raise one pint of water one degree Fahrenheit is equivalent to the amount of energy it takes to rase 2 cubic yards, or over 40 cubic feet of air, one degree Fahrenheit. This means that for every degree that a pint of water loses to the surrounding air, the equivalent of 50 cubic feet of air rises one degree.



Allowing hot water to drain is throwing away precious heat, het holding hot water in the kitchen or bath until it cools allows the water's heat to enter the indoor environment and give its heat to the home. An added benefit of holding warm water is that it moisturizes the air during the dry winter months.



There are, however, a couple of cautions that have to be mentioned. Excessive moisture can damage wall paper. Also, frost buildup is possible on poorly insulated windows if air moisture becomes too high. Nevertheless, hot water holds a lot of heat which can be salvaged just by retaining it until it cools.



CENTRALIZATION

Some large homes have one or several rooms that are used only occasionally or perhaps very rarely. These may include guest rooms, auxiliary family rooms, hobby and game rooms or former children's rooms. Consider isolating these rooms during the winter months, closing their doors, blocking their heating vents and only heating the rooms in your house that are most commonly used. The "peripheral rooms" can always be reopened during busy times such as the holiday season, but need not have heat wasted on them during the other days when they are not commonly used. This solution will bring you a cozier and more comfortable winter season.



WINDOWS

Windows can have a major effect on heating, both positive and negative, depending on the window's location and the time of day. South-facing windows should be kept open during sunny days allowing passive solar heating to warm the house. Otherwise, blinds, curtains and draperies will hold heat in the home by limiting the amount of heat that can radiate out the windows.



TIMERS

It is not always necessary to have the heater burning fuel during the hours that you are either away at work or asleep in bed. Nevertheless, it is quite understandable that coming home to a cold house, or waking to a cold bedroom and kitchen can be very uncomfortable. Installing a timing system that turns the heat on an hour before you arrive home or get out of bed can save fuel while maintaining your comfort.



THE ENCHANTING GLOW OF MAINE'S AURORA BOREALIS DISPLAYS Contributed by:

Mark Bloomer, 2000

The aurora borealis, otherwise more commonly known as the northern lights, can occasionally be seen shimmering beneath the star fields of a clear Maine night. The northern lights are most common during a peak in solar activity which occurs about every 11 years and which is occurring now, during 2000-2001.





The northern lights occur when particles emitted from the sun during solar flares collide with earth's ionosphere which is a high layer of earth's atmosphere. Solar material is funneled toward the earth's polar regions in response to earth's magnetic field. High latitude regions such as Alaska and Hudson Bay Canada can see the northern lights two or three nights a week. Northern Maine may see the Aurora on average 15 to 20 nights a year, and southern Maine may see them 5 or 10 nights a year.



Most aurora displays appear as a soft pale green glow along the northern horizon, occasionally accompanied by faint spikes of light rising upward. However, a few times each year more spectacular displays will dazzle the sky with a variety of colors and patterns. Red glows can accompany the stronger events. The reddish events are both a higher energy and higher altitude phenomenon, and because they are associated with higher energy events, they can often be seen anywhere in the sky including overhead and even to the more southern reaches of the United States. The red glows, in combination with the more classical green glows, can mix to produce oranges, yellows, pinks and whites.



Stronger aurora displays will often create a pattern resembling curtains blowing in the wind. Arcs of light can be seen curving across the sky, and sometimes a rippling pattern will emerge creating the appearance of a moonlit ocean as seen from beneath the water.





A spectacular phenomenon which can also appear in major aurora displays is the "corona". The corona appears as ribbons of colored light fanning out from a common center. This creates a pattern similar to the underside of an umbrella or carousel. The central region of the corona is the point in the sky where the solar particles are coming from. The pattern is similar to that of sun

rays which appear to be fanning out in a radiant form, but are really parallel.

Another occurrence that can be seen during an aurora is soft flashing similar to lightning. There have even been some rare reports of crackling sounds in association with this, but this is not officially documented.

Aurora displays typically peak on the opposite side of the earth from the sun. This is because solar particles curl around the earth and then funnel down toward the far side pole via the pull of the magnetic field. Therefore, northern lights displays usually reach a maximum around midnight. The best approach to catching a northern lights display is to take a moment each clear night to glance at the northern horizon in search of the tell-tale spikes of soft pale green light. Keep in mind, however, that clouds illuminated by urban lighting or moonlight, and spikes of light resulting from streetlights refracting through ice crystals, can sometimes be mistaken for the aurora.

One of the best ways to help distinguish the northern lights from other lights is to observe the brightness of the stars. A glow in the sky that is set in a backdrop of clear crisp stars is more likely to be the genuine northern lights than a glow which may appear on a murky night. If a display looks promising, then dress very warmly and head out to a site which is free from urban lighting to view the lights. Peaks in activity often last a week or two, so once you have seen a display keep a watchful eye on the night sky for the days and weeks to come.



Aurora borealis can sometimes be forecast, but with limited skill. It can be determined if solar flair activity on the sun is aimed in the general direction of the earth, but it is difficult to track the solar material during its journey through space. The strength and exact path of the solar particles are a major challenge to determine. It typically takes two to three days for solar material to reach the earth after a solar flair. Forecasting the impacts of solar flairs on earth is predominantly done in the interest of communication satellites that may be affected by the activity. Major events are called "magnetic storms", and the northern lights are merely a beautiful bi-product of these storms.

The aurora borealis is truly an enchanting and awe inspiring site. Eskimo mythology has maintained that the soft dancing glows of the aurora are created from angelic torches lighting the long celestial bridges that souls of the deceased must traverse in order to pass from earth to Heaven. They are worth seeking, and will be an unforgettable experience for those who can catch their wonder.

In this issue, we will be looking at winter weather and its effects on you and your family.



November 13th through the 17th is Winter Weather Awareness Week for the state of Maine. The following pages will help you learn more about winter weather hazards and what you can do to keep your family as safe as possible.

Basic Winter Facts



Mention Maine, especially northern Maine, and winter weather will generally be within the first few thoughts about the state. Snowmobiling, skiing, hockey, and all sorts of winter sports and other recreational activities come to mind.



Folks in Maine understand winter, and are prepared for winter - right? Well, not always.



Nationally, winter weather claims nearly 100 lives annually, more than lightning, hurricanes, or tornadoes.



Winter storms are considered to be deceptive killers because most deaths are indirectly related to the storm. People die in traffic accidents on snow or ice covered roads, from hypothermia due to prolonged exposure to cold, and from heart-attacks due to over-exertion. About 70% of the deaths occur in motor vehicles and nearly 25% are from exposure to snow and cold. These statistics indicate the need for winter weather awareness, and a preparedness plan for your family; even in northern Maine where everyone knows about winter.



Unlike severe thunderstorms, winter storms are generally slow in developing, often taking one to three days to mature. This does not in any way diminish their importance, nor their potential for causing loss of life and destruction of property. What it does mean is that the National Weather Service is often able to provide

advance notice of winter storms, in some cases, with lead times of several days.



Winter Storms are generated by disturbances along boundaries between cold polar and warm maritime air masses; the fronts of different temperatures and densities wage their perpetual war to obtain equilibrium. The disturbances may become intense low-pressure systems, churning over tens of thousands of square miles.



In the Pacific, these disturbances form along polar fronts off the east coast of Asia and travel northeastward toward the west coast of North America. When Pacific disturbances cross the Rockies, they often redevelop to the east.



One region of such redevelopment lies east of the Colorado Rockies and these storms move east or northeastward toward the Great Lakes. Another region is east of the Canadian Rockies and these storms move southeastward, toward the Great Lakes.



The Lakes themselves are generators of local winter storms. Other winter storms develop from northward-moving disturbances originating over the Gulf of Mexico and the southern plains.



The east coast is also a winter storm factory, with disturbances off the coast of the Carolinas and Virginia developing into the notorious Cape Hatteras Storms or Nor'Easter.



These dangerous storms develop to great intensity and move up the coast, then on to Labrador or Greenland. In addition to severe winter weather conditions, these storms often generate winds of 70 to 100 miles per hour, or greater, whipping up seas of unimaginable heights. Damage to coastal property and paralyzing inland communities make the Nor'Easter the worst combination that winter has to offer.



Whatever their origin, they all share a common feature: the ability to immobilize completely large areas and to isolate and kill persons and livestock in their path. The severity of these storms makes them a very real seasonal threat. Nearly everyone remembers a significant winter storm - days of heavy snow, interminable blizzard, inconvenience, economic loss, and sometimes a personal tragedy. Winter brings them all.



Every winter is a bad year for some portion of the country and winter storms can kill without breaking climatological records. Their danger is persistent, year to year. Automobile accidents claim a little more than a third of all winter deaths, with just less than a third related to overexertion, exhaustion, and consequent fatal heart attack. Exposure and fatal freezing make up a small percentage and the remainder are related to such causes as home fires, carbon monoxide poisoning in stalled cars, falls on slippery walks, electrocution from downed wires, and building collapse.



Meteorological winter begins on the first day of December and marks the start of the three coldest months of the year. Astronomical winter follows about three weeks later when the Sun's rays fall directly over the Tropic of Capricorn which is 23.5 degrees south of the equator.

The Winter Solstice - the shortest daylight of the year - falls near December 21st or 22nd. That short day actually marks the start of the Astronomical winter, with the encouraging fact that the daylight will begin to lengthen.

Get ready for the seemingly brief periods of sunlight, and the long, cold nights of winter.



An interesting fact about the winter sun - the sun actually reaches its closest approach to the Earth during the first few days of January. It seems odd that the sun is the closest to us when the weather is at its coldest. However, the sun's rays strike the earth at an angle over the northern hemisphere during the winter months, which causes much less warming effect.



Winter Weather Elements

Snow

The word snow in a National Weather Service forecast, without a qualifying word such as occasional or intermittent, means that the fall of snow is of a steady nature and will probably continue for several hours without letup.

Snow Flurries are defined as snow falling for short durations at intermittent periods. Although snowfall during the flurries may reduce visibilities, accumulations from snow

flurries are generally small, by definition, only trace amounts.



Snow Squalls are brief, intense falls of snow and are comparable to summer rain showers. They are accompanied by gusty surface winds.



Blowing and Drifting snow generally occur together and result from strong winds and either falling snow, or loose snow already on the ground. Blowing snow is defined as snow lifted from the surface by the wind and blown about to a degree that visibility is greatly reduced. Drifting snow is used in forecasts to indicate that strong winds will blow falling snow or loose snow on the ground into significant drifts. Sometimes after the snow has stopped falling, but significant blowing and drifting snow is still occurring; it is often referred to as a Ground Blizzard.



Blizzards are the most dramatic and perilous of all winter storms, characterized by strong winds bearing large amounts of snow. Most of the snow accompanying a blizzard is in the form of fine, powdery particles of snow which are whipped in such quantities that at times the visibility is only a few yards.



Wind Chill

A very strong wind combined with a temperature slightly below freezing can have the same chilling effect on the body as a temperature nearly 50 degrees lower in a calm atmosphere. This is referred to as the wind-chill factor, which shows the combined effects of wind and temperature as equivalent calm-air temperatures. In effect, the index describes the cooling power of the air on exposed flesh. An outside air temperature of 10 F, combined with a 20 mile per hour wind will have the same effect on exposed flesh as an air temperature of 24 below zero F with no wind. Exposed flesh may freeze in as little as 15 seconds under extreme wind chill conditions.



Keep in mind that wind chill equivalent temperatures only affect people and animals. Machines or water pipes will only cool to the outside air temperature, not go below it. It is true that warm engines or water pipes will cool at a much faster rate when exposed to the wind, but the cooling will stop when the outside air temperature is reached.



There is a wind chill chart on the back page to help you determine the wind chill equivalent temperature.



Freezing Rain and Freezing Drizzle

Freezing rain or freezing drizzle is rain or drizzle occurring when the surface temperatures are below freezing (32 degrees Fahrenheit). The moisture falls in liquid form, but freezes upon impact, resulting in a coating of ice glaze on all exposed objects. Ice forming on exposed objects generally ranges from a thin glaze to coatings about an inch thick; but much thicker deposits have been observed.



It has been estimated that an evergreen tree 50 feet high with an average width of 20 feet may be coated with as much as five tons of ice during a severe ice storm. A heavy accumulation of ice, especially when accompanied by high winds, devastates trees and power lines. Sidewalks, streets, and highways become extremely hazardous to pedestrians and motorists - over 85 percent of the deaths are traffic related during an ice storm.



Freezing rain or drizzle frequently occur for a short time as a transitory conditions between the occurrence of rain or drizzle and snow, and therefore usually occur at temperatures slightly below freezing.



Sleet can be easily distinguished from freezing rain as sleet is frozen raindrops that bounce when striking the ground or other objects. By itself, sleet does not stick to trees or power lines, but sleet in sufficient depth does cause hazardous driving conditions.



The terms freezing rain and freezing drizzle warn the public that a coating of ice is expected on the ground and on other exposed surfaces. Heavy accumulation will cause significant damage to trees, overhead wires, and the like. Damage will be greater if accompanied by high winds.



Any road-icing condition is extremely hazardous. Snow provides greater traction, but at temperatures just under freezing, traffic will churn snow into slush which will freeze when traffic lessens. Accumulated ice on roadways, or re-frozen slush, covered by a thin layer of new snow can set the stage for unexpected tragedy. Traffic melts this thin snow layer, which re-freezes, and is polished by auto tires into a veritable skating rink. More light snow may obscure the layer of ice which may lure drivers into overestimating how much control they have over their vehicles. Often called Black-Ice, this polished ice on roads is difficult to see under the best circumstances, and control over vehicles will be difficult.



Words of Warning - How to get Winter Weather Information

You can get your weather information from many different sources, including television, commercial radio, the Internet, or even the newspaper. But when weather is critical, when lives and property are in jeopardy, then NOAA Weather Radio is your best choice for receiving weather information.



The National Weather Service will provide a continuous update of weather information for your area. During the winter, products to listen for will include:



Winter Weather Outlook which is issued to alert the public of the potential for a significant winter storm, usually 48 to 72 hours ahead of time.



Winter Weather Advisory is issued for expected snowfalls of 4 to 6 inches and for periods of freezing rain or drizzle accumulating less than ½ inch.

Winter Storm Watch, when issued by the National Weather Service means that severe winter weather conditions may affect your area during the next 12 to 48 hours. Freezing rain with accumulations greater than ½ inch, or heavy snow of 7 inches or greater may occur separately, or in combination.



Winter Storm Warning is issued when severe winter weather conditions are expected usually within the next 24 hours. Freezing rain with accumulations greater than ½ inch, or heavy snow of 7 inches or greater may occur separately, or in combination. The warning can include blowing or drifting of snow where visibility is expected to be less than a quarter mile and presents a hazard.



Wind Chill Advisory or Warning will be issued when: Advisory, wind chill equivalent temperatures are expected to reach -30 to -44 degrees F; and Warning for wind chill equivalent temperatures of -45 or lower.



Blizzard Warning will be issued when the wind is expected to be sustained or have frequent gusts to 35 mph or greater, lasting at least 3 hours, and visibility reduced to below 1/4 mile in snow or blowing snow.



Winter Safety Rules





Heavy Snow

Heavy snow can leave roads nearly impassable, especially when combined with strong winds (blizzard conditions). Anyone planning to be out on the road should:



Ice Storms

Freezing rain or drizzle can make travel nearly impossible. In addition, heavy accumulations of ice can bring down trees and utility lines creating additional hazards.



Drivers should:





Extreme Cold

Children awaiting the school bus in the morning, standing exposed to the cold and wind, without proper clothing for protection, may develop hypothermia and/or frostbite.



Parents need to be especially careful in supervising that children of all ages are properly dressed. Keep in mind that a rapid body heat loss may occur if the head is not properly covered. Also provide protection to exposed skin including the face, ears, and hands.



Any person who will be outdoors needs to take precautions to protect against hypothermia and frostbite. Dress in layers, with the outermost layer providing a degree of wind and water resistance.



Keep in mind that you do not have to be outdoors for extended periods of time to develop frostbite or suffer from hypothermia. A cold day that is combined with wind, may rapidly create the conditions of exposed flesh freezing in a few seconds.



Hypothermia Safety Rules...

Hypothermia, the killer of the unprepared, sets in when the body loses heat faster than it produces it. Temperature, normally 98.6 in the human body, begins to fall, vital organs will fail, and when the body temperature falls below 78 degrees, death is likely.



According to the American Red Cross, there are two types of hypothermia:



Acute, or sudden, is usually caused by a sudden immersion in cold water which can cool the body 25 times faster than cold air.

Chronic, or long-onset hypothermia, can develop with exposures of 12 hours to as much as several days. Below freezing air temperatures are not required. It can occur when working in temperatures below 50 degrees and the body is wet from precipitation, sea spray, or perspiration.



Whether acute or sudden, both types of hypothermia fall under four degrees; mild, moderate, severe, and critical. The degree is determined by the inner body core temperature. For any hypothermia case greater than mild, medical assistance is strongly urged!!





For mild hypothermia (body temperature of 97 to 93 degrees) symptoms will include shivering; cold hands and feet; alert but some numbness, clumsiness, and pain from the cold.



Treatment: Prevent further heat loss and let body rewarm. Give warm sweet drinks; no alcohol or caffeine. Keep victim warm for several hours.





Moderate hypothermia (body temperature 93 to 90 degrees) shivering will decrease or stop. For treatment, apply gentle heat to stabilize temperature. Offer drinks only after victim is fully conscious. Have victim checked by doctor if possible.





Severe Hypothermia will occur when the body temperature is 90 to 82 degrees. Symptoms: the body shivering will stop; there is a loss of mental clarity; abnormal behavior; victim may appear drunk; may resist help; followed by victim becoming semi-conscious or unconscious. Muscular rigidity will increase.



Treatment: Avoid jarring victim; handle gently; ignore pleas to be left alone; lay victim on back and keep immobile; apply mild heat to body trunk.





Critical hypothermia is reached when the core body temperature drops below 82 degrees. The victim will be unconscious and appear dead. Little or no apparent breathing or pulse will be detected. The skin will be cold; may be bluish-gray. Eyes may be dilated. Body very rigid.



Treatment: Always assume that the patient can be revived and do not give up. Look and listen for breathing and pulse for two minutes. If there is any at all, do not give CPR. If none, begin CPR. Medical help is imperative.







For any stage of hypothermia, and if medical help is not available:



Begin warming the person slowly. Warm the body core first. If needed, use your own body heat to help. Get the person into dry clothing, wrap them in warm blankets and cover the head and neck. Do not give the person alcohol, drugs, coffee, or any hot beverage or food; warm broth is better.



Do not warm extremities (arms and legs) first!! This will drive the cold blood toward the heart and can lead to heart failure!!



Frostbite: frostbite is damage to body tissue caused by that tissue being frozen. Frostbite causes a loss of feeling and a white or pale appearance in extremities such as fingers, toes, ear lobes, or the tip of the nose. If symptoms are detected, get medical help immediately! If you must wait for help, slowly rewarm affected areas. However, if the person is also showing signs of hypothermia, warm the body core before the extremities.







Be Prepared...before the storm

strikes



At home and at work...

Your primary concern would be the loss of your utilities, loss of heat, power, telephone service, and a shortage of supplies if storm conditions continue more than a day.



Have on hand:

In cars and trucks...



The kit should contain: blankets for each occupant; flashlight with extra batteries; first-aid kit; knife; high calorie, non-perishable food; extra clothing to keep dry; a large, empty can with plastic cover (coffee can works great) with tissues and paper towels for sanitary purposes; a smaller can with water-proof matches to melt snow for drinking water; sack of sand (or cat litter); shovel; windshield scraper and brush; tool kit; tow rope; booster cables; water container; compass and road maps; highway flares; and if possible, a cell phone. Also advisable is several packages of the chemical hand warmers.

On the farm...



Dress to fit the season...

Wear loose-fitting, light-weight, warm clothing in several layers. Trapped air insulates between the clothing layers and layers can be removed to avoid perspiration and subsequent chill. Outer garments should be tightly woven, water repellent, and hooded. Wear a hat. Half of your body heat loss can be from the head. Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extreme cold. Mittens, sung at the wrists, are better than gloves. Try and stay dry.



Family Disaster Plan

Families should be prepared for all hazards that affect their area and themselves. NOAA's National Weather Service, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the American Red Cross urge each family to develop a family disaster plan. Where will your family be when disaster strikes? They could be anywhere: At work, at school, or in the car. How will you find each other? Will you know if your children are safe? Disasters may force you to evacuate your neighborhood or confine you to your home. What would you do if basic services - water, gas, electricity, or telephones - were cut off?



Gather information about hazards. Your National Weather Service, emergency management office, or the American Red Cross chapter, or civil defense office would be glad to help. Find out what type of disasters could occur and how you should respond. Learn your community's warning signals and evacuation plans.



Meet with your family and create a plan. Discuss the information you have gathered. Pick two places to meet: a spot right outside your home for an emergency such as a fire, and a place away from your neighborhood in case you cannot return home. Choose an out-of-state friend as your "family check-in contact" for everyone to call if the family gets separated. Discuss what you would do if advised to evacuate.



Implement your plan. Post emergency telephone numbers by the phones; install safety features in your home such a smoke detectors and fire extinguishers; inspect your home for potential hazards; have your family learn basic first aid and CPR, how to use a fire extinguisher, how and when to turn off water, gas, and electricity in your home; teach children how and when to dial 911; keep enough supplies on hand at all times to last your family for three days. Keep important family documents in a waterproof container.





Practice and maintain your plan. Ask questions to make sure your family remembers meeting places, phone numbers, and safety rules. Test your smoke detectors monthly and change the batteries at least once a year. Conduct drills. Test and recharge your fire extinguisher(s) according to manufacturer's instructions. Replace stored water and food every six months.