As you’ve probably heard by now – an arctic blast is on the way to the region. If some of the forecast models are correct, we will likely experience some of the coldest temperatures since February within the next 48 to 72 hours. High temperatures may not make it out of the 20s in some areas by Friday. Temperatures will likely dip into the teens Friday and Saturday morning. Wind chill readings will likely dip into the single digits by Friday morning. Brrr! There is also a threat for some snow in some parts of Miami Valley, although no major storms are expected at this time in the area.
Either way, if you’ve put off getting prepared for bitter cold weather, it is time to rethink that. There are some things you should check around your house to make sure you are prepared. One thing is to make sure all of your garden hoses are disconnected from any hose bibs. This is one item that some forget to do and then have quite a mess and an expensive bill if water in the hose expands into the outdoor faucet as it freezes. You’ll also want to make sure your furnace is checked and ready to go.
Some other more obvious tips would be to make sure your car is ready for the cold. The last thing you want to do is get stuck on the road. Check your tire pressure, antifreeze and washer fluid, and of course, your battery. Cold weather can kill a battery that is not in good shape.
Of course, you’ll also want to remember your pets. If it is cold to you outside, then it is cold to them. Make sure they have a warm place to be and that they have plenty of fresh food and water. Remember if you are walking your dog to be sure to wipe their paws off when they come inside in case they’ve walked across any treated sidewalks.
So while the official start of winter is still just over two weeks away (Dec. 21), there will be no doubt winter is close by the end of this week.
Eric Elwell is WHIO StormCenter 7 Chief Meteorologist. Contact him at eric.elwell@coxinc.com or follow him on Facebook and Twitter.
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