National Weather Service Text Product Display

Public Information Statement
Issued by NWS St. Louis, MO
Versions: 1 2

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PUBLIC INFORMATION STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE ST LOUIS MO
225 PM CST Fri Jan 30 2015

...SAFETY RULES FOR WINTER STORMS...

A winter storm watch has been issued by the National Weather
Service.  The following safety tips are being provided in
the hope that the broadcast media will frequently air these
messages while the watch affects their area.

For a report of highway conditions across Missouri, call the
Missouri Highway Patrol at 1-800-222-6400.  For Illinois
conditions call 1-800-452-4368.

A winter storm watch means that conditions are favorable for
the development of severe winter weather in the designated
area.  During the watch there is no cause for immediate
concern.  You should, however, plan ahead in case the storm
does develop.  Keep informed about the developments of the
storm by listening to NOAA Weather Radio, the voice of the
National Weather Service, or to commercial radio or
television.

A winter storm warning means a winter storm is expected very
soon or is actually occurring.  People in the affected area
should take the necessary precautions.

Winter weather advisories, as well as freezing rain
advisories, are issued for lesser events that are not
considered life threatening but will cause an inconvenience.
Unnecessary travel or activity should still be avoided.

If you must travel during the winter, make sure your car is
winterized before winter weather strikes.  Be certain your
tires, battery, lights, exhaust, heater, defroster, and
windshield wipers are in good working order.  Also make sure
that you begin any trip with a full tank of gas.

A severe winter storm can close roads and knock out
electrical power.  If you live in a rural area, you should be
certain your food and medical supplies are adequate before
the storm begins.  Check your supply of heating fuel, since
fuel carriers may not be able to reach your house due to ice
or snow covered roads.

Be very careful when using alternative heating sources, such
as fireplaces, stoves, or space heaters.  Proper
ventilation is essential to avoid a deadly build-up of carbon
monoxide.  Fire is also a major risk when using such heating
sources, and keep in mind that the fire department may not
be able to reach your location during a winter storm.

If you must venture outdoors, dress for the conditions.
Wear several layers of light-weight warm clothing.  Outer
garments should be waterproof and hooded.  For the hands,
mittens snug at the wrist offer better protection than
fingered gloves.

The cold will feel intense when the wind is blowing.  Strong
winds cause a pronounced increase in the chilling effect of
low temperatures.  In a 20 mile per hour wind, a temperature
of 20 degrees becomes the equivalent of 4 degrees above zero.
Increase that wind to 35 miles per hour, and the effect drops
to zero.

$$

Glass
National Weather Service Weather Forecast Office
