WISCONSIN — An overnight snow storm is set to sweep across the entire state overnight Thursday and into Friday.
Between snow and blowing winds, some Wisconsinites may see dangerous travel conditions and power outages.
Here’s what you can do to prepare, according to the National Weather Service and Xcel Energy.
Prepare your home
Prior to the storm, buy any supplies you may need and make a plan for if you lose power and cannot leave your home. Xcel Energy suggests checking often to make sure your natural gas meters clear of snow and ice to avoid potential for natural gas buildup indoors, which can be dangerous. They also said to use a shovel to remove snow around the meter, not a snowblower.
Heat safely
If you are using a space heater, make sure to not leave it unattended and make sure it’s not broken or frayed. More than 65,000 home fires are attributed to heating equipment each year in the U.S., according to the Electrical Safety Foundation International.
Prepare your vehicle
Getting your vehicle weather-ready includes getting together a safety kit, cold weather gear and any other necessities that may help you in the event of a storm.
Stay away from downed power lines
Never in any circumstance should you touch or move a downed power line, according to Xcel Energy. If you come across one, make sure you leave the area and report it by calling 1-800-895-1999.
Have a plan
It’s always best to have some type of communication plan ahead of a weather threat. You should also consider changing travel plans or preparing to have some type of impact on your routine.
Monitor forecasts and stay informed
As the storm approaches, make sure you stay up-to-date with the latest information on the Spectrum News App, or by watching our weather coverage on-air.
Xcel Energy also suggested signing up for power .outage notifications on their website.
Know the difference between weather terms
There are several winter weather terms that can be floated around during major weather events. The National Weather Service said it’s best to know what each means so you can be prepared.
A “Winter Storm Watch” means that there is potential for a winter weather event, or that conditions are possible but not imminent. A “Winter Storm Warning,” on the other hand, means a winter storm is imminent and may be a danger to life and/or property.
A “Winter Weather Advisory” means winter weather is imminent and may cause some type of inconvenience.
A “Blizzard Warning” means a winter storm with strong winds, snow and low visibility is imminent. There is also a danger to life and property under this warning. An “Ice Storm Warning” means that dangerous ice accumulations are imminent.