The Rockbridge County Office of Emergency Management encourages everyone to prepare now for cold weather emergencies. There are simple, low-cost steps individuals and families can take to be ready: get a kit, make a plan and stay informed.

When winter weather threatens your area, it’s essential that you listen to your local radio and television stations for updated information.  Make sure you are familiar with the various winter related terminology.

Winter Terminology

• Winter Weather Advisory: Winter weather conditions are expected to cause difficulty and might be dangerous. With caution, these conditions should not become life threatening.
• Winter Storm Watch: Issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) when there is the potential for significant and hazardous winter weather within 48 hours. It does not mean that significant and hazardous weather will occur. It only means it is possible.
• Winter Storm Warning: Issued by the NWS when a significant combination of hazardous winter weather is occurring or imminent.

Safety Tips

• During the Winter Storm
• After the Storm