An Introduction to Snowstorm Preparation in 2026

Snowstorms can disrupt daily life, causing power outages, hazardous travel conditions, and limited access to emergency services. Preparing in advance can protect your family and reduce stress during these events. Here's how to prepare for snowstorms in 2026:

Why is Winter Emergency Preparedness Important?

Snowstorms and power outages increase the risk of:

• Slips, falls, and hypothermia
• Carbon monoxide poisoning from improper generator/heating use
• House fires from candles and space heaters
• Motor vehicle crashes during icy conditions
• Delayed emergency response times

Preparation helps you stay safe, warm, and connected when conditions are at their worst. (atspa.org)

How to Build a Winter Emergency Kit

Every household should have a basic emergency kit that can sustain everyone for at least 72 hours. Essentials include:

• Water (one gallon per person per day)
• Non-perishable food and a manual can opener
• Flashlights and extra batteries (avoid candles when possible)
• Fully charged power banks for phones and medical devices
• Prescription medications and basic first aid supplies
• Blankets, warm clothing, hats, and gloves
• Important documents stored in a waterproof container

Winter-specific additions:

• Extra blankets or sleeping bags
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• Ice melt and a sturdy snow shovel
• Extra pet food and supplies

How to Prepare Your Home Before the Storm

Taking preventive steps can reduce risks during extended outages:

• Insulate pipes and allow faucets to drip during extreme cold to prevent freezing.
• Install and test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors—especially critical when using alternate heat sources.
• Stock up on heating fuel if you rely on oil, propane, or wood.
• Set refrigerators and freezers to the coldest setting to help food last longer during outages.
• Charge devices and battery backups ahead of the storm. (atspa.org)

How to Use Heat and Power Safely

During power outages, improper heating methods can be deadly:

• Never use grills, camp stoves, or generators indoors or in garages.
• Keep generators at least 20 feet from doors and windows and use outdoor-rated extension cords.
• Use space heaters safely—keep them at least three feet from anything flammable and never leave them unattended.
• Avoid candles; use flashlights instead to reduce fire risk. (atspa.org)

How to Plan for Communication and Medical Needs

• Identify how you’ll receive emergency alerts if internet or power is lost.
• Keep a list of emergency contacts written down.
• If you rely on electric-powered medical equipment, register with your utility company and local emergency management agency.
• Check on neighbors, especially older adults and those with disabilities. (atspa.org)

When Should You Travel During a Snowstorm?

If travel is unavoidable:

• Keep a winter emergency kit in your vehicle (blankets, flashlight, shovel, traction aids, water, and snacks).
• Let someone know your route and expected arrival time.
• Slow down, increase following distance, and avoid sudden movements on icy roads. (atspa.org)

What to Do After the Storm Passes

• Continue to monitor weather and utility updates.
• Watch for downed power lines and report them immediately.
• Clear snow and ice safely—pace yourself to prevent overexertion and heart-related emergencies. (atspa.org)

How Does Clime Support Snowstorm Preparedness?

Clime offers real-time weather updates and forecasts, helping you stay informed about upcoming snowstorms. With Clime, you can receive timely alerts and plan accordingly, ensuring you're always prepared for winter weather events. (atspa.org)

FAQs

What should be included in a winter emergency kit?

A winter emergency kit should include water, non-perishable food, flashlights with extra batteries, fully charged power banks, prescription medications, blankets, warm clothing, and important documents stored in a waterproof container. (atspa.org)

How can I prepare my home for a snowstorm?

To prepare your home, insulate pipes, allow faucets to drip during extreme cold, install and test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, stock up on heating fuel, set refrigerators and freezers to the coldest setting, and charge devices ahead of the storm. (atspa.org)

Is it safe to use candles during a power outage?

It's safer to use flashlights instead of candles during a power outage to reduce the risk of fire. (atspa.org)

How can I stay informed about weather updates during a snowstorm?

You can stay informed by monitoring weather updates through reliable sources and using tools like Clime for real-time weather information. (atspa.org)

What should I do if I lose power during a snowstorm?

If you lose power, use alternative heating methods safely, avoid using grills or generators indoors, and keep a winter emergency kit with essentials like blankets, flashlights, and non-perishable food. (atspa.org)