The Meteorological Service occasionally warns the public about a blizzard. It cannot be said that such messages always arrive on time, because sometimes it is not possible to predict the approach of this phenomenon. But even in the case of timely information received, it cannot be considered that the population will be completely safe. So what is a blizzard, and what measures should be taken if you are within the radius of this natural phenomenon, let's figure it out …
What is a blizzard?
First you need to understand what a blizzard is. This is one of the varieties of hurricanes, the distinguishing characteristic of which is that it occurs only in the winter. Gusts of wind in this case can reach 56 kilometers per hour. Another feature of a blizzard is that it always brings low temperatures with it. On average, it reaches -7 ° C. However, there is no clear data on what area a snowstorm can cover. It can be several tens or several hundred kilometers.
The leading place in the study of snow storms belongs to American scientists. The fact is that it is in the United States that this phenomenon is most often observed. Therefore, scientists have the opportunity to consider the nature and nature of these natural disasters directly at the place of their occurrence.
US Blizzard
Since America is the leader in the frequency of snowstorms, it is almost impossible to surprise them. The population clearly knows what their actions should be in the event of another threat.
So, the last time this natural disaster paralyzed life in New York at the end of January 2015. In the affected area was not only the "big apple", but also the cities of six neighboring states. A blizzard in New York is a fairly common occurrence, but the Juneau (as the Americans called the storm) was particularly powerful. The wind power reached 120 kilometers per hour, which is almost twice the norm. At the same time, about 90 cm of snow fell.
To protect the population, the authorities of all states banned the use of personal vehicles in the dark. In addition, flights were canceled, and shops and schools closed earlier than usual.
A blizzard in New York caused a $ 200 million loss to the city’s economy. But authorities say that the losses could have been much greater if they had not prepared for this disaster in time.
How to prepare
So what if meteorologists warn that a blizzard is approaching? The blizzard with which it can be accompanied will only aggravate the situation.
- The building in which you will wait for the storm must be solid. Make sure that it can withstand strong gusts of wind, or go to a more reliable building.
- The second thing to do is close all windows, doors, vents and attics. At the same time, it is advisable to strengthen the windows with paper tapes, shutters or shields.
- If there are things on the balcony or windowsill that can be caught in the wind, you need to remove them. So, you will not only save them from loss, but also protect yourself from possible injuries and broken windows.
- You should have a supply of water and food for several days, as well as medicines. In addition, you need to be prepared for the disappearance of electricity.
- Important information about public activities during a blizzard is usually broadcast via radio or television. Therefore, make sure that the radios and TVs are working.
Snowstorm Activities
- You must understand that a snowstorm is a dangerous phenomenon, so you can leave the shelter only if there is an urgent need. But even in this case, you cannot go out yourself. In addition, it is important to tell friends, neighbors or relatives where you are going. It may depend on your life.
- Sometimes a blizzard catches a person driving a car. In this case, it is better to quickly go on a large highway or expensive. In this case, the chance that you will be saved on time will be much higher.
- If you are forced to stop due to a strong snowstorm, it is advisable to stay inside the vehicle. In this case, the motor should not stop working. To protect yourself from carbon monoxide, you need to slightly open the glass. Give alarms with short beeps. You can also hang a bright cloth on the antenna.
- Another scenario is possible when a blizzard caught you in the open. If you start to lose your landmark, you need to go into the first house that comes across and try to wait there when the snow storm ends. This will be the best way out of the situation, although if you leave your strength, any shelter will do.
- It is important to remember that during natural disasters, the number of thefts and robberies increases. Therefore, you must be very careful with strangers.
