Winter Hazard Awareness Week Begins

(KNSI) — A Special Weather Statement ushers in Winter Hazard Awareness Week.

One to three inches of snow, maybe even some sleet and freezing rain, is expected in central Minnesota Monday. Benton County Sheriff Troy Heck says now is a great time to refresh your knowledge about what the different winter storm predictions mean.

“Preparedness starts with making sure you understand the difference between these watches and warnings that come out and making sure you’re aware of weather forecasts and what’s coming your way.”

Monday’s theme is winter storms. A watch means conditions make a significant snowfall event possible. An advisory requires three to five inches of snow to fall in a 12-hour span. A warning goes into effect when six inches of snow are expected in 12 hours, or eight inches are projected to fall in 24 hours.

Heck says now is the time to make sure you are stocked for the possibility of being stuck inside for 24 hours or longer, maybe without power.

“Having some kind of emergency provisions. What are you going to need for your basics? Do you always have enough water on hand? Do you have enough canned food on hand? Do you have enough of your medications on hand? Do you have enough of what you need on hand for your pets? That type of thing.”

Learn more by clicking here.

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