How to Be Prepared When You Become Stranded During a Heavy Winter Storm

From heavy snow, blizzard conditions and wintry weather, being stranded or trapped in the middle of the road is extremely difficult and dangerous. The weather could be problematic for any motorists.

(Photo : by John Normile/Getty Images)
December 27, 2022 in Lackawanna, New York

This week, the forecast warned that the cold weather with snow in the United States could be challenging for many motorists. The slick roads and icy conditions could be dangerous to travel.

The severe weather in the U.S. has recently unloaded heavy snow in portions of the country, affecting many residents and motorists. Widespread flight delays were also reported due to poor visibility and winter conditions.

As the year ends, road hazards are still present due to the severe weather conditions and snow. On West Coast, heavy rain and mountain snow could occur.

Weather agencies said the importance of staying updated with the weather. Motorists could install the AccuWeather application to keep up with the current weather news and alerts.

According to AccuWeather's recent report, snowy conditions and icy pavements could increase the chances of road and vehicle accidents. The problematic weather could produce difficulty in road visibility, resulting in being stranded or slowed travel.

Travel safety during the winter storm

It is important to know tips in planning or traveling outside, especially if there is a threat of freezing weather conditions or a major winter storm. Here are some essential tips you should remember before traveling or when you get stuck in the middle of a storm.

Know the weather conditions

Weather reports advise anyone to keep updated with the weather forecasts, helping them prepare better and prevent accidents or injuries. Knowing the current weather conditions could give you insight into the road difficulty or potential road hazards.

If the roads become impassable or very severe, it is best to reschedule your travel or trip when the weather becomes better. Chances are you would become stranded or stuck on the roadways.

While inside the vehicle or on the road, drive slowly and safely since there are slick and icy roads.

Also Read: Heavy Lake-Effect Snow Unloaded in Buffalo, New York, Causing Major Travel Disruptions; Residents Warned of Prolonged Cold Exposure

Car emergency kit

Like inside your home, keeping an emergency car kit could help you survive severe weather conditions.

The car kit should include the following:

Food supplies.
Bottled water.
A power bank.
A battery-powered radio.
A medicine kit.
An extra blanket.
Winter clothes.

The radio would help keep us updated on the weather.

AccuWeather explained that it could help you in the worst-case scenario, especially if you try to travel amidst severe winter conditions.

Stay inside your vehicle.

At the vehicle, inform your family members or local authorities about your current situation. Having your GPS turned on is helpful to locate you in the middle of a winter storm easily.

AccuWeather explained that it is better to stay inside a vehicle if there are no safe places to keep shelter. The report added that abandoning your vehicle without a safe shelter could lead to hypothermia due to prolonged exposure to the cold weather.

Your winter clothes would be helpful to warm yourself. Motorists should be extra careful with carbon monoxide exposure.

Visit AccuWeather for more road tips and weather updates.