Public Information Statement
Issued by NWS Albany, NY

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982 NOUS41 KALY 021212 PNSALY Public Information Statement National Weather Service Albany NY 800 AM EDT Sat Nov 2 2024 ...Winter Weather Awareness Week Concludes Today... Winter in New York can bring some of nature`s most severe conditions. This week we reviewed the meteorology and hazards associated with heavy snowfall, lake effect snow, nor`easters, blizzards, high winds, snow squalls, ice storms, winter flooding and cold temperatures. Preparation is the key to keep safe this winter. By preparing now, you can be ready when severe winter weather threatens. Stay informed. Hazardous weather outlooks are issued to give you a heads up for the possibility of severe winter conditions out to 7 days. Winter storm watches, high wind watches and extreme cold watches are issued when severe weather conditions are possible in the next one to three days, while winter storm warnings, high wind warnings and extreme cold warnings are issued when severe weather conditions have begun or will begin within the next 24 hours. Stay up to date with the latest forecasts. We issue frequent updates for winter weather that serve to give you the most up to the minute and detailed weather information available. Fully check and winterize your car or truck. Check your tires, brakes, windshield wipers, windshield fluid, lights, battery, and antifreeze. If possible, avoid travel during winter storms. Most fatalities due to ice and snow occur in motor vehicle accidents. When driving on snow and ice covered roads, slow down. If you have the option to telework or work from home, snowy or icy days are good days to do so. Be alert for rapidly changing conditions. Lake effect snow bands, snow squalls and localized areas of blowing snow can lead to rapid changes in road conditions and visibility. Dress for the weather when venturing outdoors to prevent frostbite and hypothermia. At home, be prepared for the possibility you may lose power and heat. The greatest threat from ice storms, heavy wet snow and high winds are power outages. Be ready with flashlights, battery powered radio, extra batteries and water. Have enough high energy foods that require no cooking or refrigeration, extra medicine, baby items, and first aid supplies on hand to last several days. Chimneys should be inspected and cleaned now. Emergency heat sources such as fireplaces, wood stoves and space heaters need to be used properly to prevent fire, and ventilated properly to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Never run a generator indoors or in an attached garage. Always make sure your smoke alarms, fire extinguishers and carbon monoxide detectors are in working order. If you need information on paying for energy to stay warm in your home this winter, visit your state energy assistance program website. Do not forget about your pets in the winter. Make sure they have plenty of food and water and shelter from the cold. When you need timely information, you can get it on NOAA Weather Radio. Weather radios are inexpensive and alert you of the latest hazards. The Albany National Weather Service Forecast Office broadcasts twenty four hours a day from stations in New York and western New England. Your Albany National Weather Service forecast information is also available online and on social media. You can reach us at weather.gov/albany, on facebook at NWSAlbany and tweet along on X @nwsalbany. $$ NWS Albany