Winter Weather terminology to know

Winter Weather Awareness day was celebrated on Nov. 17 in Kansas and Missouri. This day was designated by The National Weather Service and its state partners.

Let's use this as a time to review weather terms that we will probably be hearing in the upcoming months. Mary Knapp, Kansas' state climatologist, has given some indicators of what to expect and how to respond.

* WINTER STORM or WINTER WEATHER -- conditions will vary by location and event, but may include a mix of snow, wind, ice, poor visibility and cold temperatures.

* Winter weather OUTLOOK -- Storm conditions are possible in the next three to seven days. Citizens should stay tuned to local media for updates, and plan ahead for handling.

* Winter storm WATCH -- Odds are favorable for significant and hazardous winter weather conditions to develop within the next 12 to 48 hours. A watch means you need to begin preparing.

* Winter weather ADVISORY -- A mixture of freezing precipitation is likely within the next 12 hours, but it probably won't prompt a warning. Accumulations will be less than four inches for snow or one-fourth inch for ice. The weather could cause significant inconveniences and might be hazardous. If you are cautious, however, it should not be life-threatening.

* Winter storm WARNING: Life-threatening, severe winter conditions with more than one hazard have already begun or will arrive within the next 24 hours. People, property, pets and livestock will be at risk. During a warning, one needs to be prepared for the worst and avoid being out in the storm on foot or in a vehicle.

"The subcategories that you also may hear tend to explain themselves -- ice storm warning, sleet advisory, heavy snow watch. You just need to remember that an advisory isn't likely to be as severe an event as a warning. And, you've got some time to prepare during a watch," Knapp said.

Knapp maintains links to and information about current forecasts and ways to stay safe during weather emergencies online at http://www.ksre.ksu.edu/wdl/.

Editor's Note: Delta George is a K-State Research and Extension agriculture and 4-H extension agent assigned to Bourbon County. She may be reached at (620) 223-3720.