The National Weather Service and the Alabama Emergency Management Agency will observe the week of November 17-November 19, 2008, as Winter Weather Awareness Week in Alabama.
In the past, winter weather has been a major cause of weather related deaths, injuries, and property damage in Alabama.
Before we get into the heart of this winter season, now is the time to prepare ourselves for the dangers and hazards associated with winter weather. Since the past several winter seasons have been relatively quiet, the need to reacquaint ourselves with winter weather safety is much higher.
Cold Winter Facts for Alabama
Alabama is no stranger to winter’s deadly grip. Historically, severe winter weather conditions can affect some or all of the state. Alabama has been fortunate during the past several winters and has only experienced a few significant winter storm threats, primarily over northern portions of the state.
One of the most tragic outbreaks of cold weather in Alabama occurred January 10-18, 1982, when 20 people died and 300 were injured. 16,000 people were forced into emergency shelters and storm damage totaled 78 million dollars. The arctic outbreak of December 19-21, 1981, took the lives of at least 2 people in unheated homes and at least 17 people suffered injuries caused by slipping and falling on ice.
At least 5 people perished in the extreme cold of January 19-22, 1985, that rewrote low temperature records over much of Alabama. This storm brought ice accumulations up to one foot in Lauderdale County. Bridges were coated with ice well into Central Alabama and four people were killed in traffic accidents on icy roads.
An outbreak of severe cold occurred December 22 -25, 1989, killing five people in Alabama. Low temperatures for two consecutive nights dropped to the 0 to –5 degree range over the northern third of Alabama and into the single digits along the Gulf Coast. Daytime high temperatures reached only into the teens. Brisk northerly winds created wind chills ranging from 0 degrees to 15 degrees below zero across the entire state.
Just over 10 years ago in March, 1993, the state was held in the grip of record cold and snow. Much of the state was completely paralyzed when more than a foot of snow blanketed Central Alabama. The strong winds that accompanied the heavy, wet snow downed trees and power lines leaving many people without power for days. Record cold followed the snowfall from the “Storm of the Century”. Activities came to a halt for several days until the snow began to melt and emergency equipment could begin to clear the roadways. When it was over, 14 people had died and an unknown number of people were injured. Property damage exceeded 50 million dollars. During the winter storm, the American Red Cross in Alabama sheltered over 12,000 people in 108 facilities and served over 36,000 meals.
Winter Storm Safety Rules
Check battery powered equipment. You may have to depend on a portable radio or TV for weather information. Also, check emergency cooking facilities and flashlights. Check your supply of heating fuel.
Check your food and stock an extra supply. Your supplies should include food that requires no cooking or refrigeration in case of power failures. Consider high energy foods such as dried fruit or candy.
Don’t forget prescription medicines, first aid supplies, and other specialty items. Prevent fire hazards due to overheated coal or oil burning stoves, fireplaces, heaters, or furnaces.
Remember, in winter storms, emergency equipment can be hampered by extreme weather conditions, too, and often can’t respond as quickly.
Stay indoors during storms and cold snaps , especially the elderly, small children, and others in bad health Avoid overexertion, especially when shoveling snow.
Make necessary trips for supplies before the storm develops. Arrange for emergency heat in case of power failure, which could last for several days.
Dress to fit the season. Wear layered, loose fitting clothing. Wear a hat, scarf, and mittens.
Winterize your home by caulking around openings, installing storm windows, and adding insulation.
Get your car winterized before the storm season begins. Maintain a checklist of the preparation required.
Keep water out of your fuel by keeping your gas tank full.
Carry a winter storm car kit, especially if you plan cross country travel or anticipate travel in northern states. Items to consider include a mobile phone and charger, blankets or sleeping bags, flashlights and batteries, first aid kit, non-perishable foods, extra clothing, window scraper, water, road maps, small shovel, and kitty litter or sand for traction.
If the storm exceeds or even tests your limitations, seek available shelter immediately. Plan your travel and select primary and alternate routes.
Check the latest weather information before departing, and drive carefully and defensively. Avoid traveling alone, and be sure someone knows your travel plans and route of travel.
Don’t forget your pets or livestock. Move animals to sheltered areas. For pets, bring them indoors or provide some form of heat. Provide fresh water since many pets die from dehydration in winter storms.
Source: National Weather Service & Alabama EMA
Gary Dobbs, Meteorologist / StormForce 31
