
Title: Navigating Winter Weather Notices: A Comprehensive Guide to Staying Safe in Intense Cold As winter weather approaches, it’s essential to be prepared for potential storms that could bring heavy snowfall, sleet, and freezing rain. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued several types of notices nationwide to help people brace themselves for the impending cold front. These include winter storm watches, extreme cold warnings, and winter weather advisories. However, different regions may have varying definitions of these terms due to their unique climates and experiences with freezing temperatures. To stay informed about the notices issued in your area, search your zip code on the NWS homepage. Here’s a guide to help you understand each notice and what actions to take: 1. Winter Storm Watches: These are deployed when there is medium confidence that a storm will occur within 48-72 hours. People should start preparing for heavy snow, sleet, or ice accumulation which could lead to slick roads and downed power lines. Make sure your car is equipped with winter tires, carry an emergency kit in case of stranded situations, and keep essential supplies like food, water, and medication at home. 2. Winter Storm Warnings: This notice indicates high confidence that heavy snow, sleet, or freezing rain will impact the area within 36 hours. If you haven’t completed your preparations yet, now is the time to do so. Ensure all outdoor pipes are insulated and bring pets indoors to protect them from extreme cold. As of Wednesday afternoon, winter storm watches have been issued for a large swath of the country extending from New Mexico through Texas, then northeast towards the Carolinas and West Virginia. A winter storm warning is currently in effect just north of Syracuse, NY until Friday evening with predictions of up to 28 inches of snowfall. The significance of these notices cannot be overstated as they help communities prepare for potential hazards associated with intense cold weather. By understanding the different types of warnings and taking appropriate action, we can minimize risks and ensure our safety during winter storms. Stay informed, stay safe!
Source: [Original Article](https://www.npr.org/2026/01/21/nx-s1-5684331/winter-storm-extreme-cold-watch)
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