Winter Storm Events

3/13/2018 (Permalink)

SEVERE WEATHER 101

Winter Weather Basics

A winter storm is an event in which the main types of precipitation are snow, sleet or freezing rain.

Why can winter storms be so dangerous?

Most deaths from winter storms are not directly related to the storm itself.

• People die in traffic accidents on icy roads.
• People die of heart attacks while shoveling snow.
• People die of hypothermia from prolonged exposure to cold.

Everyone is potentially at risk during winter storms. The actual threat to you depends on your specific situation. Recent observations show that:

• Of injuries related to ice and snow:
  • About 70% occur in automobiles.
  • About 25% are people caught out in the storm.
  • Majority are males over 40 years old.
• Of injuries related to exposure to cold:
  • 50% are people over 60 years old.
  • Over 75% are males.
  • About 20% occur in the home.

https://www.nssl.noaa.gov/education/svrwx101/winter/

We have had some pretty warm days here in Alabama the last few weeks but that doesn't mean the cold weather is over. Make sure you take all the precautions to keep your home or business prepared for the cold days and nights. Call us if you need us! 205-664-6770