(KNSI) – Before the snow piles up, Winter Hazard Awareness Week is helping to bring cold weather dangers to the forefront of people’s minds.
Monday’s theme is Winter Storms. Warning Coordination Meteorologist Todd Krause says the most important thing someone can do is be aware of the forecast. “The main thing to worry about is the winter storm watches, winter storm warnings and blizzard warnings. So, if people are aware of those beforehand, they can adjust their plans if they need to be driving somewhere, or they’ve got other activities that need to be adjusted.”
Krause explains what a watch means for the average person. “The Winter Storm Watch will get issued sometimes as little as 12 hours ahead of time, sometimes as much as three days ahead of time. It just means the potential is there. It doesn’t mean that it’s a slam dunk, that we’re absolutely going to get pummeled.”
If a watch is given, Krause recommends paying extra attention to the forecasts that follow. A warning means a storm is occurring or is imminent. It could apply to heavy snow, wind, ice, or sleet. A blizzard warning is issued when visibility falls to a quarter mile or less.
The average annual snowfall in St. Cloud is roughly 46.5 inches. Heavy snow is defined as six or more inches in 12 hours or at least eight inches in 24 hours. Storms typically batter central Minnesota at least three to four times per year.
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