A Meteorologist’s Winter Storm Preparedness Checklist: What to Do Before, During, and After the Storm

​When winter storms bring snow, ice, and freezing rain, the impacts often last well beyond the forecast window. Preparation isn’t about panic — it’s about reducing risk, protecting your home and loved ones, and being ready to safely ride out extended power outages.

Below is a practical, real-world checklist you can use before, during, and after a major winter storm.

BEFORE THE STORM: Prepare Ahead

Stay Informed & Weather-Aware

• Have multiple ways to receive weather alerts and updates, especially if power or internet fails

• NOAA Weather Radio with battery backup or hand crank

• Enable Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on your phone

• Follow your local National Weather Service office for the most accurate, location-specific forecasts

• Rely on trusted local TV meteorologists who understand your region’s storm history and impacts

• Avoid relying on a single weather app or social media source

Prepare Your Home

• Insulate exposed pipes and know how to shut off your home’s water supply

• Set thermostats consistently (avoid extreme temperature changes)

• Seal drafts around doors and windows

• Bring outdoor furniture, decorations, and trash bins inside

• Park vehicles away from trees and power lines if possible

• Stock ice melt, sand, or kitty litter for traction (use pet-safe products where pets walk)

• Have snow shovels and ice scrapers ready before conditions worsen

• Clear nearby storm drains to reduce ice buildup

Pets & Animals

• Bring pets indoors well before conditions deteriorate

• Stock extra pet food, medications, and potable water

• Have blankets or crates ready to keep pets warm and secure

• Make sure collars, ID tags, and microchip information are current

Emergency Kit Essentials

Prepare for at least 3–5 days, longer if you’re in a rural or ice-prone area:

• Water (1 gallon per person per day)

• Non-perishable food and a manual can opener

• Flashlights or lanterns (avoid candles)

• Extra batteries and/or rechargeable power banks

• NOAA Weather Radio

• First-aid kit

• Prescription glasses/medications, hearing aid batteries, and mobility aids

• Personal hygiene items

• Copies of important documents (paper and digital)

• Cash (ATMs and card readers may be unavailable)

Backup Power

• Fully charge phones, laptops, battery packs, and medical devices

• Know what your generator can and cannot power

• Review generator safety guidelines before the storm

• Store generator fuel safely and outdoors

• Never run generators, grills, or fuel-burning devices indoors, in garages or near air vents

Food Safety Planning

• Set refrigerators and freezers to the coldest setting

• Freeze containers of water to help maintain cold temperatures

• If extended outages are likely, prepare coolers and ice

• In freezing conditions, food may be stored in a secured cooler outside — protect it from animals and temperature fluctuations

Medications & Medical Needs

• Refill prescriptions early

• Keep medications in insulated containers if temperature-sensitive

• Have backup power or contingency plans for medical equipment

• Keep a written list of medications, dosages, and provider contacts

Special Needs & Accessibility

• Plan for mobility, oxygen, refrigeration, or power-dependent needs

• Arrange backup caregivers if necessary

• Register for local emergency assistance programs if available

Heat Sources

• Inspect fireplaces and wood-burning stoves

• Stock dry firewood if applicable

• Never use outdoor heating sources indoors

• Never leave space heaters unattended

• Keep extra blankets, sleeping bags, and warm clothing accessible

Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Safety

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

• Install battery-powered or battery-backup detectors on every level of your home

• Replace batteries before the storm arrives

Check on Neighbors

• Identify elderly neighbors, those with disabilities, or families with young children

• Exchange contact information

• Make a plan to check in safely before and after the storm

DURING THE STORM: Stay Safe

• Continue monitoring weather updates from trusted local sources

• Heed advisories, warnings, and road closures from local officials

• Stay off roads unless travel is absolutely necessary

• Avoid walking on ice — falls are a leading cause of storm-related injuries

• Conserve phone battery by limiting non-essential use

• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed

• Dress in layers and stay dry to prevent hypothermia

• Keep pets indoors

AFTER THE STORM: Proceed with Caution

Many winter storm injuries and fatalities happen after the storm has passed.

Avoid Overexertion

• Shovel in stages, not all at once

• Push snow instead of lifting when possible

• Use proper footwear with traction

• Apply ice melt or sand before shoveling to reduce slips

• Take frequent breaks and stay hydrated

• Stop immediately if you feel chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath

Carbon Monoxide Awareness

• Never bring grills, generators, or fuel-burning heaters indoors

• Be alert for CO symptoms: headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion

• Leave immediately and call 911 if carbon monoxide alarms sound

Watch for Falling Ice & Snow

• Avoid standing under rooflines, gutters, and icicles

• Clear snow and ice from vehicles before driving

• Keep children and pets away from roof overhangs

Food Safety Check

• If food has been above 40°F for more than 2 hours, discard it

• When in doubt, throw it out

• Check frozen foods for ice crystals, which may indicate partial thawing

Inspect Your Home Safely

• Watch for downed power lines (assume all are live)

• Report outages and hazards to authorities

• Check pipes for leaks once temperatures rise

Check on Neighbors (Again)

• Especially after extended outages or prolonged icy conditions

• A quick call or knock can save lives

Preparedness isn’t just about supplies — it’s about awareness, pacing yourself, and looking out for one another. Winter storms can be serious, but thoughtful preparation and smart decisions before, during, and after the storm can significantly reduce risk.