Will Ohio see snowy, icy weather this winter? Here’s what Farmers’ Almanac, NWS predict
It’s finally November.
With the new month comes thoughts of the upcoming holiday season as well as winter weather. Will we be trudging through rain on Black Friday or celebrating a white Christmas?
Of course, winter doesn’t officially begin until Dec. 21, but it’s never too early to prepare for the season ahead, especially if it’s going to be a snowy, frigid one.
So, will it be freezin’ in Ohio this winter season?
What Farmers’ Almanac says
With the El Niño still in full swing, the Farmers’ Almanac predicts a very cold winter ahead.
According to the Almanac: “Cold temperatures should prevail throughout the country and bring snow, sleet, and ice.”
In the Ohio specifically, the Almanac predicts a dry, cold winter, but with several winter storms.
In fact, the Farmers’ Almanac used two words to describe Ohio’s upcoming winter weather: “cold, stormy.”
What the National Weather Service says
The National Weather Service (NWS) predictions for the winter season in the Valley are about the same as the predictions of the Farmers’ Almanac, but there are a few slight differences.
Let’s take a look:
The NWS climate prediction is broken down into seasonal temperature and seasonal precipitation forecasts.
The seasonal temperature forecast map predicts somewhat above average temperatures for Ohio and the precipitation forecast predicts average rainfall in the region.
Winter weather prep tips
Here are some winter weather tips from the Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness:
Preparing for winter weather can be as easy as 1-2-3.
- Make an emergency plan. Plans should include each member of your household. Make a communication plan. For example, if you have a multi-generational home you may plan for the needs of babies, children and grandparents. Keeping in mind the household members with different abilities that may require special assistance or use of medical or mobility equipment, and let’s not forget the pets.
- Build an emergency kit. Have an emergency preparedness “go-kit” ready in case you need to leave the house quickly. Using your plan as a guide, you can have the appropriate items ready to go at a moment’s notice. Make a kit for each of your vehicles in the event you are stranded and need supplies to keep you safe until help arrives.
- Practice your plan. Gather your household together so everyone understands the plan and their role in the process.
Prepare your home
- Winterize your home.
- Heat your home safely.
- Make a household plan and build an emergency kit.
- Have your furnace system and fireplace inspected by a qualified technician.
- Check the batteries in your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
Prepare your vehicles
- Winterize your vehicles. Check the tires and fluids.
- Keep your gas tank full.
- Keep an emergency kit in each vehicle.
- Equip your car with an emergency kit that includes first-aid kit, blankets, flashlight, extra batteries, water, snacks, cell phone charger, and emergency flares.
Prepare your family
- Check the weather forecast before engaging in outdoor activities.
- Dress in layers of light and warm clothing. Keep your feet, hands, and head well covered.
- Avoid overexertion when engaging in outdoor tasks, such as shoveling snow. Take breaks when you feel tired or strained.
- If you have pets, bring them indoors. If you cannot bring them inside, provide adequate shelter to keep them warm and make sure they have access to water.
- Sprinkle cat litter or sand on icy patches.
- Be prepared for an emergency. Know the signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
- Check on your neighbors that may need assistance.
Know where to receive Emergency Communications, Alerts and Warnings
- Sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and NOAA Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts.
What do you think about the forecast? Email me and let me know at cmadden@mcclatchy.com
