Winter Storms Part 1: Home Prep

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 Part of the four part series on winter storm preparation:  home, car, work, and camp.

Preparing for Winter Storms in the Great Plains: A Step-by-Step Guide

Why Winter Storm Prep Matters Here

Winter in the Great Plains is no stranger to fierce snow, bitter cold, and wind that seems to cut right through you. While most years bring a few mild snowfalls, the big storms can arrive suddenly, bringing whiteout conditions, ice-covered roads, and power outages that last for days.

The key to riding out these storms safely is preparation before the first flake falls. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you and your household are ready.

Step 1: Monitor Weather Forecasts

  • Trust multiple sources — local TV, NOAA weather radio, and mobile alerts.

  • Watch for Winter Storm Watches (possible) and Warnings (imminent or occurring).

  • Pay attention to wind chill advisories — frostbite can occur in minutes.

Midwest Tip: Winter storms can build hundreds of miles away and still hit us hard. A sunny morning is no guarantee you’ll avoid a blizzard that afternoon.

Step 2: Winterize Your Home

  • Seal drafts around windows and doors.

  • Service your furnace and replace filters.

  • Keep space heaters as backups (and use them safely).

  • Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing.

Pro Tip: If your home loses heat, close off unneeded rooms and hang blankets over doorways to retain warmth.

Step 3: Stock Essential Supplies

Food & Water

  • At least three days of ready-to-eat food that doesn’t require cooking.

  • One gallon of water per person per day.

Other Essentials

  • Flashlights and LED lanterns (plus spare batteries).

  • Heavy blankets and sleeping bags rated for cold weather.

  • Portable phone chargers or power banks.

Step 4: Prepare Your Vehicle

  • Keep your gas tank at least half full in winter.

  • Store an emergency car kit: blankets, extra gloves, shovel, sand or kitty litter, windshield scraper, and high-energy snacks.

  • Check tire tread and pressure — cold weather reduces PSI.

Midwest Tip: Park facing into the wind during snowstorms to reduce drifting against your vehicle.

Step 5: Have a Communication Plan

  • Make sure everyone in your household knows where to meet if separated.

  • Keep an updated list of phone numbers in case cell service is unreliable.

  • Use two-way radios or a CB for local communication if phone lines fail.

Step 6: Think About Heat & Power Backups

  • Generators: Ensure proper ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

  • Wood stoves/fireplaces: Keep dry wood stocked and tools ready.

  • Battery banks: Keep devices charged ahead of time.

Step 7: Stay Put Unless Absolutely Necessary

In a Plains blizzard, visibility can drop to zero. Even short trips can become dangerous. If you’re stuck away from home:

  • Stay in your vehicle if stranded.

  • Run the engine 10 minutes per hour for warmth.

  • Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow.

Midwest Takeaway

In the Great Plains, winter storms aren’t just about snow — they’re about wind, ice, and bitter cold. A few hours of preparation now can make the difference between a manageable inconvenience and a dangerous emergency.

Final Thought:
Preparedness is peace of mind. Build your storm plan in layers — home, vehicle, and personal safety — and you’ll face the next winter system with confidence.


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