Surviving a blizzard in the backwoods

[corndog-44]

Though it's not officially winter yet, winter weather is here now and knowing when a substantial winter storm is coming can help save lives. Surviving and remaining comfortable during a blizzard takes much preparation and is more possible when you are able to predict that the storm is coming. How do you determine when a blizzard is coming and what do you do to survive through the storm?

[Rick]

I keep an eye turned to the television and computer to track storms as they approach and to understand what the projected path and precip potential is. From a generic perspective, I have a fireplace with plenty of seasoned wood, a kerosene heater and a propane heater as backups. I have plenty of water for the two of us (50 gallon hot water heater and two 5 gallon water jugs) and food just in case we can't get out. I have a mongo Troy Bilt snowblower and a 4X4 in case we can.

EDIT: Jeese, Corndog, I should have read the title of the post. Sorry. You said backwoods.

Check the forecast before I go.

I look for a ring around the sun (red dog) or moon. Ice crystals high in the atmosphere will generally present a faint ring or halo. That tells me water vapor is present.

Altostratus clouds are a good harbinger of an impending storm. Usually on the leading edge of a front. Expect it to arrive soon.

A sudden change in wind direction gets my attention. I also believe in the old sayings.

A red moon brings rain (snow).

Mare's tails and mackerel scales make tall ships take in their sails. (usually more time to prepare with Mare's tails (cirrocumulus clouds) than with Altostratus.

Birds will either fly lower or stop flying as the pressure drops

My achy joints

My ever trusty weather rock

What do I do? Depends on how far out I am. Look for someplace inside if possible. Otherwise, make camp and dig in.

[corndog-44]

That's OK Rick...I just figured you was just an armchair backwoodsman wannabe. :D

[Rick]

Not only do I not know what I wannabe. I don't know what I wannado or where I wannago. Ain't I a mess?:confused: