Clarksville Now wants to make sure all of our readers stay safe during weather emergencies, and part of that is staying informed. Here’s some information, much of it courtesy of the National Weather Service, that will keep you ready for winter weather.
What’s a Winter Storm Watch?
- Advisory: Severe winter weather is expected.
- Watch: There’s “medium confidence” that a winter storm is coming, and it’s time to get prepared.
- Warning: “Confidence is high” that a storm is coming, and it’s time to take action.
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Winter weather dangers
Wind chill: A measure of how cold people feel due to the combined effect of wind and cold temperatures. The Wind Chill Index is based on the rate of heat loss from exposed skin. So, it might be 15 degrees outside, but the wind chill could give it the same impact as -5 degrees.
Freezing rain: Rain that freezes when it hits the ground, creating a coating of ice on roads, walkways, trees and power lines.
Sleet: Rain that turns to ice pellets before reaching the ground. Sleet also causes moisture on roads to freeze and become slippery.
Black ice: Dangerous patchy ice on roadways that cannot be easily seen. It is often clear, with the black road surface visible underneath. It is most prevalent during the early morning hours, especially after snow melt on the roadways has a chance to refreeze overnight.
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Can roads handle snow in Clarksville?
Because it generally snows only once or twice a year in Montgomery County, and in amounts of only a few inches, many roads are not designed for snow and ice conditions. The city, county and state are equipped with salt and brine trucks, along with snow plows. During and after a winter storm, residents should monitor the news for updates on road conditions before deciding whether to travel, allowing crews time to clear the roads.
| MORE: 7 most dangerous roads for winter weather wrecks in Clarksville
When driving on ice, snow
When there’s a chance of ice on the roads, take it slow. Even the biggest trucks with four-wheel drive will slide off a roadway covered in ice if the vehicle is going too fast.
If you begin to slide, remain calm, ease your foot off the gas and turn your wheels in the direction you want the front of the car to go. If you have an anti-lock braking system (ABS), apply steady pressure to the brake pedal. Never pump the brakes on an ABS-equipped vehicle.
When going out on the roads, give yourself more travel time, and increase your following distance in case someone in front of you makes a sudden stop.
Also, before driving, clear your car of ice and snow! Flying snow from vehicles causes accidents.
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Preparing for a winter storm
At home or work: Be ready to lose power and heat. Some things to keep on hand: Flashlight and extra batteries, battery-powered radio, non-perishable food and water, extra prescription medicine as needed, baby items as needed, extra pet food as needed.
Warming shelters: In Clarksville, the city and local agencies will often open or designate certain facilities as warming shelters, opening them to people who need to come inside to stay safe. Follow ClarksvilleNow.com for announcements.
Wrap your pipes: If temperatures stay well below freezing for multiple days, there’s a risk that your pipes will freeze. Make sure they are wrapped on the inside and outside of the house, and you may want to let indoor faucets drip to keep water flowing.
In your vehicle: Be ready to be stuck on ice or snow. Some things to keep in your car during winter: Ice scraper, cell phone charger, a bag of sand or cat litter for traction, warm clothes including hat and gloves, blanket, water and snacks, and jumper cables.
Monitor the news: Listen to local news or an NOAA Weather Radio to stay informed about watches and warnings. Follow coverage on ClarksvilleNow.com and tune in to local radio stations Beaver 100.3, Q108, Z97.5, Rewind 94.3 or The Patriot 105.5.
Get notifications: Sign up for free Clarksville Now weather alerts on your phone by texting the word NEWS to 43414.
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