Politics & Government

Snow, Sleet, Freezing Rain, Winter Storm Warning - Motorists Should Know These Terms

Understanding the difference between meteorologists' terms for winter weather can make a world of difference when deciding whether or not to take to the road.

As the full spectrum of winter weather falls today (snow, sleet, freezing rain and rain), many people will be glued to their computer and television screens to get the latest weather updates. The trouble, for many, is the ability to decipher meteorologists' reports. What's the difference between freezing rain and sleet? What does it mean when the National Weather Service issues a winter storm watch, a winter storm warning or winter weather advisory? 

Understanding the terminology can help you make a more informed decision about preparing for and traveling in bad weather.

Patch has taken infomation provided by the Federal Emergency Management Adminisration (FEMA) and developed a quick cheat sheet for winter weather forecasts:

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Winter Advisory, Watch and Warning

  • Advisories are issued to give the public notice of expected whether conditions that are less than severe. A winter advisory means snow, ice, and cold weather are expected. 
  • A watch is issued when severe conditions are expected within the next couple of days. A great deal of ice and heavy snowfalls fall under this category.
  • Warnings are issued when severe weather conditions are imminent. The fast approaching conditions include heavy snowfalls and ice.
  • Blizzard warnings are a step above the standard winter-weather warning. In a blizzard, heavy snowfall is combined with high winds which may bring visibility down to zero. Left-threatening wind chill is also implied when a blizzard warning is issued.

According to FEMA, people should avoid unnecessary travel and stay up to date on developing weather reports during a winter storm watch.

Find out what's happening in Ellington-Somerswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

During a winter storm warning, FEMA suggests staying inside, layering of clothing if going outside is necessary, avoiding car travel, and carrying a car-emergency kit.

If your pipes freeze, FEMA suggests you "remove any insulation or layers of newspapers and wrap pipes in rags. Completely open all faucets and pour hot water over the pipes, starting where they were most exposed to the cold (or where the cold was most likely to penetrate)."

Sleet, Freezing Rain and Frost/Freeze Warnings

  • Freezing rain happens when it rains during cold temperatures and upon hitting the ground can create a sheet of ice on roads.
  • Sleet starts as rain, but turns to ice pellets before hitting the ground. It also causes icy roads.
  • A frost/freeze warning is issued when temperatures are expected to fall below freezing.

For more winter weather tips from FEMA,  check out www.ready.gov/america/beinformed/winter.html


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