Winter Weather

Winter weather in Appleton

Blizzard / Winter Storms

Blizzard has 3 hours or longer sustained wind/gusts to 35 mph or greater with considerable falling and/or blowing snow reducing visibility frequently to less than ¼ mile.

Extreme Cold / Ice Storms

Extreme cold occurs during extended below zero temperatures with possibly even lower wind chill producing hypothermia or frostbite in a short time to those exposed. An ice storm brings rain that freezes when it hits the ground, creating a coating of ice on roads, walkways, trees, and power lines. Both can be causes for power outages.

Snowsquall

A fast pace winter snow storm that brings white-out conditions and rapidly falling temperatures. 

Preparedness

Before

Prepare your home, work, and car! A major impact from winter storms are power outages. Consider having some of these items available to you at home and work incase of a power outage:

  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • Extra food and water that do not require cooking or refrigeration
  • An emergency heat source
  • Fire extinguisher, smoke alarm, and a carbon monoxide detector
  • Ensure you have any power reliant medical equipment charged. 

(Learn more about power outages on our Power Outage Hazards page)

Preparing your car before the winter season is essential. We encourage individuals to not drive during winter storms; however, if you find needing to travel during a winter storm, consider these travel tips:

  • Phone Charger
  • Blankets/sleep bags
  • High-calorie, non-perishable food
  • Bag of sand or cat litter
  • Windshield scraper
  • Candle and matches stored in water proof container (emergency light and heat)

For more information on general preparedness, visit our Emergency Preparedness page

During 

If you are outside

  • Find or build a shelter to stay dry and avoid the wind
  • If dehydrated, melt snow for drinking water
  • Exercise to keep warm and to keep your blood circulating

If you are in a vehicle

  • If you find yourself driving during winter weather, drive slow down and drive with caution. 

If you are inside

  • If using space heaters, ensure you are properly ventilating the area. 
  • If your home loses power, keep these safety tips in mind:
    • Eat and drink water! Make sure you are supplying your body with energy and keeping it hydrated.
    • Close off any rooms that are not being used. This helps avoid wasting warm air. 

After

Use caution when venturing outside! Even though the Winter Weather system has passed, there could be more hazards present.

  • Roads and sidewalks are snow covered and/or icy.
    • Go to 511wi.gov to get current road conditions.
  • Snow and ice could have knocked down powerlines.

Watch vs. Warning for Winter Storms

Watch Advisory Warning
 Snow, sleet, or ice is possible  Wintry Weather is expected or happening  Snow, Sleet, or ice is expected or happening
 Be Prepared  Use Caution  Take Action

 

Blizzards, Winter Storms, Wind Chill, and Lake Effect Snow all have unique characteristics for Watches, Warnings, and Advisories. To learn more about all of the different Winter Weather alerts, go to NWS Winter Weather Warnings, Watches, and Advisories website. 

Additional Resources

National Weather Service - Winter Weather Safety

Ready.gov - Winter Weather

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