(KLZA)-- It is now time to focus attention  to winter weather and the dangers it can pose to life and property.  November 4th, 2021 is Winter Weather Awareness Day  in Nebraska. 

For this winter, La Niña conditions are forecast to develop later this fall and persist into the winter months. La Niña’s impacts in Nebraska tend to be more subtle compared to the northern and southern parts of the country. A persistent northwesterly flow aloft tends to favor more Alberta clipper type systems and less of the Four Corners type lows, which can bring heavy snow and significant winter weather to the Central and Southern Plains. 

According to the Climate Prediction Center, there are equal chances for above, below, or near normal temperatures and precipitation for all of Nebraska. This comes as no surprise given the relatively weak La Niña signal for this winter and low predictability for Nebraska.

In short, this winter season for Nebraska should start out with above normal temperatures. For Nebraska, there is no strong forecast signal for above, below, or near normal precipitation. The outlook for late winter shows no strong forecast signal for above, below, or near normal temperatures or precipitation. 

The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) and the National Weather Service (NWS) offices serving Nebraska will continue the program called “Pathfinder” this winter across the entire state. This program is sponsored by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), and is a collaborative strategy to proactively manage the transportation system ahead of and during adverse weather events, and translate weather forecasts and road conditions into consistent transportation impact messages for the public. 

Pathfinder is a unique public-private partnership. Entering our 4th year within the pathfinder framework, NWS and NDOT will continue building on the existing relationship. This continued relationship will build on our efforts to create a “shared impact message” for the public. This message will highlight how weather will impact road and travel conditions, be consistent among each entity, and shared across the various dissemination platforms of all parties involved. Pathfinder is a state-wide project, involving all eight NDOT districts, and all six NWS offices serving Nebraska. While the main focus is on winter weather, Pathfinder will be able to address all types of weather impacts across the state, including high-end wind events, dust, and flooding.

The National Weather Service reminds you to be prepared before the storm strikes in both your home and workplace.  This includes having a flashlight and extra batteries handy,  a battery-powered portable radio and a Weather Radio.  Extra food and water should be stored including high energy food and food that does not require refrigeration.  First aid supplies, extra medicine and baby items are also suggested.

On the farm animals should be moved into sheltered areas.  Extra feed  should be hauled to nearby areas and make sure the animals have access to plenty of water. 

If you get caught outside in a winter storm it is important to stay dry and cover all exposed body parts.  Build a fire for heat and to attract attention if possible. 

If you are caught in a vehicle in a storm stay in the vehicle but only run the motor about 10 minutes each hour for heat.  Be sure to open the window a little bit for fresh air to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.   Be sure the exhaust pipe is not blocked and be visible to rescuers.  This would including using a piece of cloth, preferably red tied to your antenna or door.   Remember to exercise from time to time, moving your arms, legs, fingers and toes to keep blood circulating. 

You should always have a winter storm survival kit in your car including a mobile phone and chargers,  a flashlight with extra batteries, a first aid kit, a shovel,  tool kit, tow rope and battery booster cables.  A windshield scraper and brush or small broom are also necessities.  Keep blankets or sleeping bags with your and extra dry clothes.  You should also have a large empty can to use as an emergency toilet.  

High calorie, non-perishable food and a can opener are also suggested along with a small sack of sand or ca litter for generating traction under wheels.