Winter Storm 2014

The winter of 2014 has been one of the most brutal on record. Winter weather has affected everyone from the Northeast to the Midwest to the Deep South. Some locations have received record snowfall with no end in sight anytime soon. Some of these storms have stranded people for hours forcing many to abandon their vehicles and seek shelter. The Southern states recently endured Storm Pax that dumped over a foot of snow in some locations coupled with sleet and freezing rain that crippled the South with catastrophic power outages.

What do you do when you find yourself immobilized on a crowded highway trying to get home as was the case with recent storms in AL, GA, and NC? Here a few tips to keep in mind: 

• Make sure you have fueled up before the storm approaches.
• Have a blanket, bottled water and snacks on hand. 
• Run your vehicle at brief intervals to save on fuel.
• Have a car charger for your cell phone and purchase one if you don't.
• Keep a big bag of cat litter in your vehicle. It provides traction for spinning tires. 
• Download local weather apps for your area. 
• Check your state government agency for apps that give up to the minute traffic information to stay updated as it unfolds 
• Local authorities advise never to leave your vehicle abandoned in the event of bad weather.

HELPFUL LINKS: 

http://www.ready.gov/winter-weather

http://www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/winter-storm

http://www.ready.gov/kids/make-a-plan

OTHER WINTER TIPS:

• Purchase a snow shovel. 
• Make homemade de-icer: Mix 1 part rubbing alcohol, 2-3 drops of dishwashing detergent and water in spray bottle. 
• Ice cream salt or pool salt will also work as de-icing agents. 
• Place towels on your windshield to make clearing them easier post-storm.
• Keep water dripping from at least 2 faucets to prevent busted pipes. 
• Check on your neighbors; especially the elderly.
• Bring your outdoor pets indoors. 

SNOW CREAM: 

Have you ever had Snow Cream? Have you even heard of it? This was news to Pam when Dawn discussed with her for the first time. It is a common staple in the South when it snows. It has the consistency of ice cream and can be made in a variety of ways to suit to taste. It is a winter frozen treat that is loved by many. 

If you have a weather related story you would like to share about your experience of either being stranded during a winter storm, winter tips, or your favorite Snow Cream recipes, we'd love to hear about it! Please leave your comments.