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Winter Weather Awareness Week to be observed November 10 - 15
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By Charlie Warner
Argus News Editor
Last winter was one of the worst and most dangerous in recent years for parts of the region. Officially, Caledonia received 61.3 inches of snow, Hokah had 68.6 inches, and La Crosse reported in at 67.9. The long term average for Houston County is 45 inches, according to Todd Shea of the National Weather Service of La Crosse. Less than an hour east of here, portions of Wisconsin were buried under over 100 inches.
“There were areas not too far from here that set all time records for snowfall numbers,” Shea noted. “The 2007-08 snow season didn’t even make the top five for Caledonia, however. The all time record was set in 1958-59 when Caledonia received 91.6 inches.”
Winter arrived early last year, and seemed abnormally cold and long. It was, when compared to some of the preceding winters. Shea noted the 2006-07 winter dropped 56 inches of snow on Caledonia, while 2005-06 was below the average with 41.9 inches.
Residents in Houston County experienced very warm, dry winters from 2002 through 2004 when the yearly average was around 30 inches.
The winter season is once again upon us, and the National Weather Service and Minnesota Emergency Management are promoting Winter Weather Awareness Week Nov. 10-15. The observance is a way to educate and/or remind residents about the dangers of winter weather and winter storms.
It is important persons learn and understand the definitions of different winter related headlines. Here are the main products used by the NWS to keep people informed.
Hazardous Weather Outlook
The Hazardous Weather Outlook includes any potential weather hazard out to seven days. It is used for planning purposes and will include a short description of what the weather threat is, when it is expected, and how much it may impact the region. The HWO is issued daily around 5 a.m., and updated during the day as needed. It is also broadcast on NOAA Weather Radio near the top and bottom of every hour.
Winter Storm Watch
A Winter Storm Watch is issued when there is a potential for a winter storm to affect the region during the next one to three days. It does not always mean the area will be hit by a winter storm, but there is still some uncertainty of the exact path or timing of the event. This is a planning stage. Use this time to ensure you have supplies at home, like some extra food, medications, baby items, etc. If travel is planned, check ahead and see if a different route or delaying your departure may make your trip safer. Be alert for changing weather conditions.
Winter Weather Advisory
Advisories are issued for those winter weather events that are expected to be more of an inconvenience and should not become life-threatening if caution is exercised. These are often issued for three to six inches of snow, blowing and drifting snow, freezing drizzle, or a combination of these elements. It may be issued for less snow for early season events, when drivers may not be accustomed to slick roads.
Winter Storm Warning
Winter Storm Warnings are usually issued when dangerous winter weather is expected, occurring, or imminent. The weather can become life-threatening. Criteria includes snowfalls of six inches or more in 12 hours, eight inches in 24 hours, or lower amounts if accompanied by strong winds or a combination of dangerous winter elements. Avoid unnecessary travel.
Blizzard Warnings
The most dangerous winter event is certainly the blizzard. Blizzard Warnings are issued when snow or blowing snow lowers visibilities to a 1/4 mile or less, wind gusts hit 35 mph or higher, and the storm lasts for three hours or more. Travel is dangerous and should be avoided if possible.
Ice Storm Warning
Ice storm Warnings are issued when freezing rain will cause widespread glazing. A coating of ice is expected to reach 1/4 inch thick or more on objects and make travel nearly impossible. For lesser amounts of ice, usually a winter weather advisory would be used, but even a thin glaze of ice can make travel difficult. Avoid travel.
Wind Chill Warning
Issued when wind chills of -35 F or lower are expected with wind speeds of 10 mph or more. A wind chill advisory is issued for values between -20 and -34 F. Dress warmly and cover as much exposed skin as possible.
This winter’s forecast?
When asked what “the experts” were predicting for this winter, Shea said there hadn’t been any official predictions announced yet. But he had heard most were predicting above normal temperatures, and near normal snowfalls.
You can contact Charlie Warner at
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