Battle Creek, Michigan

... Remember the lessons of winter hazards awareness week...

Today is the conclusion of winter hazards awareness week in
Michigan. The Michigan committee for severe weather awareness
reminds all Michigan residents to pay heed to weather forecasts...
advisories... and warnings as they enter another winter season.
There are a few winter weather terms described here to help in
understanding those forecasts.

     Winter Storm Watch... severe winter conditions such as heavy
            snow and/or ice are possible within 12 to 48 hours.
            Prepare and make plans now.

     Winter Storm Warning... (can also be Ice Storm Warning...
            lake effect snow warning)... severe winter
            conditions have begun or are about to begin.
            Stay indoors.

     Blizzard Warning... snow and strong winds will combine to
            produce a blinding snow (near zero visibility)...
            deep drifts... and life threatening wind chill. Seek
            Refuge immediately.

     Winter weather advisories... (advisories can be issued for a
            number of winter weather elements including snow...
            freezing Rain... Lake effect snow... etc.) Winter weather
            conditions are expected to cause significant
            inconveniences and may be hazardous. Exercise
            caution... especially while driving.

     Wind Chill Advisory... wind chill temperatures of -15 to -24 for
            for southern lower or -20 to -29 for northern and Upper
            Michigan are expected.

     Wind chill warning... wind chill temperatures of -25 or
            colder for southern lower or -30 or colder for northern
            and Upper Michigan are anticipated.

For information on a winter weather survival kit... please
contact your local emergency manager.

Listen to NOAA Weather Radio all hazards... or your favorite
radio... TV... or cable TV station... for the latest weather conditions
and forecasts before venturing outdoors or traveling in the winter.