Groundhog Phil saw his shadow. Now what?

Photo courtesy of groundhog.org

By Kassidy Ketron

Intern

As if we haven’t seen enough crazy weather this winter season, Groundhog Phil saw his shadow Sunday, signifying six more weeks of winter.

Although a groundhog’s shadow is straightforward with its weather predictions, sometimes the weatherman’s terminology can be a little confusing.

So, here’s what all of that means:

• Winter Storm Outlook — Winter storm conditions are possible in the next 2 to 5 days.

• Winter Weather Advisory — Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous. When caution is used, these situations should not be life threatening.

• Winter Storm Watch — Winter storm conditions are possible within the next 36 to 48 hours. People in a watch area should review their winter storm plans and stay informed about weather conditions.

• Winter Storm Warning — Life-threatening, severe winter conditions have begun or will begin within 24 hours. People in a warning area should take precautions immediately.

When there is a warning for winter weather, do your best to make sure you’re prepared for anything from icy roads to a blizzard.

• Winterize — Keep the gas tank in your vehicle full. This will keep the fuel line from freezing.

• Insulate — Keep your home insulated by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep the cold air out.

• Maintain — Keep up with heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned regularly and inspected every year.

• Travel — Keep the heat on in your home if you decide to leave during cold weather. Make sure the temperature is set no lower than 55 ° F.

Occasionally, the South Plains Region will see enough bad winter weather to shut down what seems like entire cities. Do you remember the blizzard that hit the Lubbock area last April?

Photo courtesy of srh.noaa.org

When such weather hits, here is what you need to know:

• Running water — Keep the water running, even at a trickle, to prevent pipes from freezing.

• Cabinet doors — Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors so warm air can circulate around the plumbing. Don’t forget to move any harmful cleaners or household chemicals out of the reach of children.

• Heat — Keep the thermostat set at a constant temperature throughout the day and night. By temporarily suspending the use of lower nighttime temperatures, you may incur a higher heating bill.

• Driving — Avoid hitting the road when conditions include sleet, freezing rain or drizzle, snow or dense fog. When travel is absolutely necessary, keep a disaster supplies kit in your vehicle.

To find out more ways to stay safe during bad weather click here.

Making sure you know what the weatherman is saying and how to prepare for any kind of winter is storm is vital, but let’s not forget about the fur babies, and we don’t mean hairy children.

• Pets/companion animals — Bring them inside during winter weather. Move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas and make sure that their access to food and water is not blocked by snow drifts, ice or other obstacles.

Be sure you are ready to take care of yourself and loved ones when bad weather hits by visiting our website or downloading one of our weather and safety mobile apps.