Nearly everyone experiences winter to some level. Even those who live in warm climates typically have a few months where it's cooler than normal. So, no matter where you live, winter preparedness based on your location's conditions is essential.

Winter storms are very all-encompassing.  The storms are all-encompassing because they produce a variety of hazards such as snow, sleet, hail, and frigid temperatures. These can cause difficult driving conditions, power outages, and outdoor survival challenges.

What is a Good Source of Weather-Related Information?

Weather.gov, produced by the National Weather Service, is focused on forecasting, alerting, and warning. Weather.com is a part of The Weather Channel, an entertainment company.

Local forecasts can often be even more useful than national-level forecasts. Local television and emergency management services often have subscription text message alert systems available.

Always use a variety of means to obtain your weather updates. If you use Google, you can also subscribe to alerts that will come to your phone about weather specific to your location. There are a variety of smartphone apps available. Make sure to test the various apps and see what works best for you.

And, of course, your NOAA weather radio covers most of the country during disasters and emergency events.

Winter Preparedness Includes Getting Ready for Winter Storms

Winter has its own set of potential hazards that can affect you whether you're at home, at work, or in your vehicle traveling.

Heavy snow

Sleet

Freezing rain

Low temperatures

High winds

The best way to prepare for a winter storm is to “know before you go.” In other words, keep track of the weather and plan accordingly.

What to Keep in Your Winter Preparedness Vehicle Kit

If you live in a winter storm area, consider keeping a snow kit in your vehicle.  The snow kit should include:

Full body snowsuit

Insulated winter boots

Knit hat

Thick gloves

Snowbrush

Metal shovel

High energy food

Extra socks

Blankets or, better yet, winter sleeping bags for each person who might be riding with you

Method to melt snow (ex. Jet Boil stove)

Artificial heat source (ex. ThermaCare Heat Wraps)

Battery-powered portable NOAA radio

Portable C.B. radio

Cathleen wrote in the comments below that she also carries:

Besides the things you listed, which are great, I always carry candles, matches, peanut butter, and water. Cat litter and chains are excellent for getting unstuck.

If you often travel with children, keep some activities on hand for them if you get stranded.

Speaking of getting stranded, it's always a good idea to always let someone know where you're headed and the route you plan to take. That way, if you don't show up when you're expected, they know where to start looking for you.

How Do Winter Weather Advisories Work?

The National Weather Service issues weather advisories through a tiered structure.

The tiered structure starts with the National Weather Centers.

National Hurricane Center in Miami, Florida, deals with hurricanes.

Storm Prediction Center focuses on severe and fire-related weather.

Aviation Weather Center is primarily concerned with flying and aviation forecasting.

There are 122 local National Weather Services offices scattered around the United States and its territories.

The local offices issue four levels of weather updates for potentially hazardous weather.

Outlook – Issued up to seven days in advance of possible hazardous weather in your area.

Watch – Issued within 48-hours of weather impacting event and indicates conditions are favorable for the development of severe hazards.