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Winter Storms
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Disaster Information

Winter Storms

Snowfall is a common occurrence in Michigan; however, Midland County generally does not experience the vast amount of snow that is received by counties in western and northern Michigan. Even so, Midland residents have seen their share of snowstorms. By definition, a snowstorm is a period of rapidly accumulating snow often accompanied by high winds, cold temperatures and low visibility. If the described conditions are particularly intense, the storm is classified as a blizzard.

A blizzard occurred in Michigan on January 26-27, 1978. Thirty-four inches of snow fell, and winds of 50-70 mph piled the snow into drifts. As a result of the storm, more than 50,000 miles of roadway were blocked, 104,000 vehicles were abandoned, 15,000 people found themselves in mass care shelters and 390,000 homes were without electric power. Two days after the storm, 90 percent of the state's roads were still impassible. The entire state went under a Presidential Emergency Declaration.

The word "snow" in a National Weather Service forecast, without a qualifying word such as "occasional", means that snow will fall steadily and will probably continue uninterrupted for several hours. "Snow flurries" are defined as snow falling for short durations at intermittent periods. The following watches and warnings are issued by the National Weather Service for hazardous winter storms.

  • WINTER STORM WATCH means that winter storm conditions may affect the area.

  • WINTER STORM WARNING means that severe winter weather conditions are occurring or are imminent.

  • ICE STORM WARNING means that significant - and possibly damaging - ice accumulations are expected.

  • HEAVY SNOW WARNING means that snowfall of at least 4 inches in 12 hours or 6 inches in 24 hours is expected.

  • BLIZZARD WARNING indicates that falling and blowing snow and winds of at least 35 mph are expected for several hours.

  • SEVERE BLIZZARD WARNING signifies that considerable falling and blowing snow, winds of at least 45 mph and temperatures of 10 degrees F or lower are expected for several hours.

Winter Storm Safety Rules

  • Keep ahead of winter storms by listening to the latest weather warnings and bulletins on radio and television.

  • Make sure battery-powered radios or televisions have fresh batteries and are working properly. They could be your only means of contact with the outside world during the storm.

  • If you live in a rural area, make sure you have an adequate supply of heating fuel. Also, make sure you have plenty of food and essential supplies on hand.

  • Have food supplies that are non-perishable and require little or no preparation.

  • Stay indoors during a blizzard. Don't go out unless it is absolutely necessary.

  • In extremely cold weather, wear loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing in several layers. Body heat is trapped between each layer to keep you warm. If necessary, layers of clothing can be removed to prevent perspiration and chills. Outer garments should be tightly woven, water repellent and hooded. Mittens that are snug at the wrist are better hand protection than gloves.

  • Get your car winterized in the fall. Keep the tank full of gasoline. Keep a car emergency kit with blankets, flashlight, booster cables, snack food, first aid, extra clothes and a snow shovel.

  • If you get stuck in your car, stay with the vehicle. Run your engine periodically to stay warm until help arrives.

  • Don't over-exert yourself. It is easy to do if you are not used to vigorous exercise.