Logo

Monday: Awareness of Winter Weather Hazards

John Cook • December 2, 2024

Monday Awareness of Winter Weather Hazards

Awareness of Winter Weather Hazards

Winter is upon us, and with it comes the annual challenge of navigating cold temperatures, icy conditions, and snow-covered landscapes. As part of Winter Weather Awareness Week, today’s focus is on understanding the upcoming winter’s outlook and raising awareness about potential hazards.


What Does This Winter Hold?

The winter forecast for 2024-2025 is influenced by several global and regional climate patterns:

  • La Niña Influence: This winter is expected to feature a weak La Niña pattern. Historically, La Niña winters bring variability to temperature and precipitation. For Arkansas, this could mean a mix of mild spells and colder-than-average periods, with precipitation potentially above normal.
  • Temperature Outlook: Predictions show equal chances of above-average, near-average, or below-average temperatures. This variability underscores the importance of being prepared for both unseasonable warmth and extended cold snaps.
  • Precipitation Outlook: Wetter-than-average conditions are slightly favored. However, wetter conditions do not always equate to increased snowfall, as much depends on the interplay between precipitation and temperature.


Potential Winter Hazards

Winter weather can pose a range of challenges, from everyday inconveniences to life-threatening dangers. Here are the key hazards to be mindful of:

  • Ice Storms: Ice accumulation can make roads treacherous, bring down power lines, and cause extended outages. These storms can often be more disruptive than snowstorms due to their ability to impact infrastructure over large areas.
  • Snowstorms: While not as frequent in Arkansas as in northern states, heavy snowfall can still disrupt travel, damage roofs, and isolate rural communities. Be prepared for rapid changes in visibility and road conditions.
  • Freezing Rain and Sleet: These precipitation types create hazardous conditions on roadways and walkways, significantly increasing the risk of traffic accidents and slips and falls.
  • Extreme Cold: Prolonged periods of sub-freezing temperatures can lead to hypothermia, frostbite, and risks to livestock. Frozen pipes and high heating costs can also affect households.
  • Flooding: Sudden snowmelt or heavy rain on frozen ground can lead to flash flooding, particularly in low-lying areas. This hazard can escalate quickly and requires immediate action.
  • Black Ice: Invisible patches of ice on roads and sidewalks pose a significant danger to drivers and pedestrians, especially during early morning or nighttime hours.


Preparation is Key

To stay safe and minimize the impact of winter weather, it’s vital to prepare in advance:

  • Monitor the Weather: Stay updated on forecasts through reliable sources like Arkansas Weather Watchers. Awareness of incoming systems gives you time to act.
  • Winterize Your Home and Vehicle: Insulate pipes, seal windows, ensure your heating systems are functioning, and equip your car with an emergency kit including de-icer, blankets, and extra batteries.
  • Create an Emergency Kit: Include essentials like water, non-perishable food, blankets, a flashlight, batteries, a first aid kit, and extra medication if needed.
  • Develop a Safety Plan: Know where to go and what to do in case of a power outage, stranded vehicle, or other emergency.
  • Stay Connected: Keep your mobile devices charged and have alternative means of communication if power or cell service is interrupted.


Today’s Weather in Arkansas

As of Monday, December 2, 2024:

  • Morning Conditions: Surface high pressure is in place, creating clear skies and light winds across Arkansas. However, patchy freezing fog has developed in some areas, particularly where temperatures have dropped into the upper 20s to mid-30s. Drivers should be cautious of reduced visibility and potentially slick spots on roads.
  • Afternoon: A brief period of southerly flow will bring slightly warmer temperatures before a new cold front moves into the state. Highs are expected to range from the upper 40s in northern Arkansas to the upper 50s in southern areas.
  • Evening: The cold front will bring another shot of colder air, with temperatures dropping into the upper teens to upper 20s across much of the state tonight. Keep an eye on conditions, especially if you’re traveling.


Looking Ahead

As the season unfolds, stay vigilant for updates on developing systems and weather patterns. Our community’s safety depends on preparation and informed decisions.


Together, we can make this winter season as safe and manageable as possible.

Stay tuned for tomorrow’s topic: Winter Precipitation Types.


Stay warm, stay safe, and stay informed!


John Cook - Journalist
Arkansas Weather Watchers


Advertisement

Share Blog Post

Share by: