Tag Archives: Winter Weather

Managing Asthma in Cold Weather

Trying to exercise in cold weather (that includes shoveling snow!) can trigger problems if you suffer from asthma. Experts believe that the cold, dry air of winter can irritate airways, causing the bronchial tubes to narrow. This can restrict airflow into your lungs! Adding exercise to the mix — your body’s breathing patterns change when you’re working out — can put even more strain on your lungs. For a person without asthma, exercise in cold weather may not be an issue. But for a person with asthma, you could be looking at an asthma attack. You may experience coughing (especially … Continue reading →

Preparing for a Powerful Snowstorm

All along the east coast, from Delaware through the New England state, families are bracing for a powerful snowstorm that may bring many inches of snow. Already snow has landed in Georgia, an unusual occurrence. Cities and states are declaring states of emergencies, even before the first snowflake has fallen. Here in my little part of Pennsylvania, we are expecting somewhere around 12 to 14 inches of the white stuff. While we don’t usually freak out about snow, the reality is that once you get a prediction past six inches here, it is time to make the preparations to ensure … Continue reading →

Snow End in Site

Overnight and in the early morning, we got hit with a few fluffy gentle inches of snow. I decided to get the shovel and brush out and take care of the long driveway, the car and the steps, cleaning them up. Our house is situated downhill, and it is a minivan, which means that even with a little snow, it isn’t getting up the hill of the driveway. So, even though I am fighting a fever, a sore throat, aches and chills, I thought it was in our best interest to get it cleared. I did a combination technique of … Continue reading →

Mother Nature vs. Holiday Travelers

Score one (hundred) for Mother Nature. This past weekend holiday travelers were slaughtered by snow, ice, fog, and high winds that crippled airports from coast to coast. I too have spent the past few days dealing with horrific weather conditions that have blasted the Midwest portion of the nation. Luckily, I didn’t have to travel too far from home for Christmas, but, unfortunately, I didn’t have the luxury of simply staying in my house until the inclement weather passed either. All tolled (according to news reports) more than 25 weather related traffic deaths have occurred in the upper Midwest during … Continue reading →

Let it Snow?

A couple of days ago, my kids and I were discussing whether we would have a white Christmas or not. It is almost uncanny how we often have just a touch of snow for Christmas, like icing on a cake. Then, we learned that we might actually get some snow this weekend. My little one jumped up and down yesterday morning asking, “Is it gonna snow? Is it? Is it?” I had to wonder what kind of weather we might expect. It’s been rather mild except for the occasional harsh day or night. However, when I stopped in the store … Continue reading →

Winter Weather Terms (1)

Do you know the difference between a Winter Storm Watch and a Winter Storm Warning? And what exactly is a Nor’ Easter and how will it affect you? This time of year, it is important to understand all of the standard severe weather terms so you can be prepared and protect your family. Winter Storm Outlook This is the condition that is issued when weather forecasters believe that storm conditions are very probable although they might not yet be able to tell the severity. The report is usually issued 48 to 60 hours before an actual storm. Winter Storm Watch … Continue reading →

Caught off Guard: Winter Weather Tips

Have you ever been caught off guard by winter weather? If you live in a climate that is generally mild, you not be prepared for a serious cold snap. You could find yourself without water due to frozen pipes, and even worse, you could end up having to replace broken pipes due to freezing. Foam Pipe Wrap Foam pipe wrap is just a simple foam tube, split down one side, with adhesive to hold the edges together once it’s placed on the pipe. It’s easy to use and inexpensive, and it might just save you from dealing with frozen pipes … Continue reading →

Cold Snap Tips

The northeastern United States woke up to some true wintery weather today. Earlier this morning here at the Jersey shore, the temperature was less than 20 degrees Fahrenheit with windchills below zero. After a reasonably mild winter (so far), the change feels pretty dramatic to me. As I write this, I’m bundled up in layers — a tank top, tee shirt, and long sleeved shirt on top; long underwear beneath loose pants on the bottom. Okay, I could just crank up the heat. But with the right layers, I don’t need to! Whether you’re inside or out, keep these tips … Continue reading →

Five Last Minute Preparations for Winter Weather

If you have adequately prepared your home and family for winter weather you can sit back and relax while the storm howls around you. There are a few last minute preparations that you may want to make in case you lose power. Here are five easy things to do to help you adjust quickly to a power outage. 1) You should make sure that you have alternate sources of lighting easily available. You can store a flashlight in your nightstand drawer. You may want to get your emergency candles out of the cupboard and put them in a place that … Continue reading →

Preparing Your Family for Winter Weather

As winter weather descends on the United States you should be prepared to handle adverse weather in your area. Here are five areas of preparedness and planning that you may not have thought about. It is important to have a plan in place so in the event of a serious storm you will know what to do. 1) If you have children in school have you considered what you will do if school is cancelled? If you work full-time you will need to have child care arrangements available or you will need to be able to take time off of … Continue reading →