Preparing For Winter Snowstorms And Blizzards - Your Ultimate All-In-One Guide

The winter weather is coming! Whether you’re facing a light dusting of sleet or a severe winter storm with heavy snow, strong winds, and extreme cold, knowing how to prepare for snowstorms can make all the difference. With decades of experience braving Nor’Easters and brutal blizzards in New England, I’ve learned what works when preparing for the worst winter conditions.

Driving carefully in the freshly fallen winter snow.

In this guide, I’ll share the best strategies and tips to help you stay safe and comfortable, no matter what the winter delivers.

How To Prepare For Winter Snowstorms And Blizzards

Winter is right around the corner. Here’s how to prepare before snowy blizzards visit your neck of the woods!

1. Stock Up On Essential Food Items

Canned preserves including tomato paste and yummy fruit jams.

When a snowstorm rolls in, the last thing you want to worry about is running out of food. A well-stocked pantry can keep you fueled and satisfied and even help boost your spirits while you hunker down and watch the snowflakes swirl outside your frosted windows.

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand when the storm hits.

Canned Goods (soup, meats, veggies.)
Protein Bars
Dried Fruits
Whole Grain Crackers
Oatmeal
Peanut or Almond Butter
Rice and Pasta
Granola Bars
Coffee, Milk, Bread

Picture being stuck indoors with the power out and only a half-empty bag of stale crackers and a lonely bottle of water—not a scenario anyone wants. With the right mix of comfort foods and nutritious options, you’ll have everything to weather the storm and make the best of the situation.

2. Have Plenty Of Bottled Water

Large water bottles stored away for snowstorms and disasters.

When preparing for a snowstorm, water is just as important as food. FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) advises keeping at least one gallon of water per person daily for at least three days. However, it’s always good to have a week’s worth of water on hand if you can manage it—just in case the storm (or power outages) linger longer than expected.

Remember your pets, chickens, goats, and other farm animals. They need ample water, too. So, stock up on extra to help keep everyone hydrated!

3. Prepare Your Snow Removal Gear

Snow shovels waiting to help remove snow from the driveway.

Nobody likes shoveling snow! But a sturdy snow shovel can help you clear your driveway, walkways, and steps, making snow removal manageable. If you want to save time and energy, a snowblower can make your job much easier—especially for larger driveways or heavy snowfalls.

And remember the little things! A reliable ice scraper is essential for your car’s windshield—few tasks are worse than trying to drive with a frosty windshield on a cold morning. Also, have salt or sand on hand to help melt ice and prevent dangerous buildup on your walkways and steps.

4. Stay Off The Icy Roads!

Carefully driving on the snowy and icy road.

Living in New England my whole life, I’ve seen how quickly things can go wrong when driving in a snowstorm or immediately after. Roads become slippery, and even experienced drivers can lose control. Black ice, snow, and sleet make it surprisingly tricky to gauge road safety.

On top of that, visibility can drop dramatically during a snowstorm, which turns a quick errand into a dangerous mission.

My advice? If you don’t have to be on the road, don’t. Staying home until conditions improve keeps you safe and helps emergency responders focus on those who need help.

5. Prepare For Prolonged Power Outages

Autonomous generator for winter power outages.

From my experience with power outages lasting weeks, I’ve learned that a generator is more than just equipment—it’s your lifeline during harsh winter weather.

A generator keeps essential devices running, from medical equipment and heating systems to refrigerators and even your morning coffee maker. Imagine trying to get through a snowstorm without these household comforts, especially if the power goes out for an extended period.

Whether you choose a portable generator or invest in a whole-house system, having a dependable backup power source makes your snowy ordeal ten times less stressful.

6. Prepare Flashlights And Emergency Kits

Collection of survival items perfect for snowstorms and emergencies.

When the power goes out, flashlights become indispensable. Keep one on every floor, test them regularly, and stockpile batteries. Consider a battery-powered lantern to illuminate entire rooms.

Prepare essential emergency supplies: warm blankets, a portable phone charger, and a first-aid kit. These items will keep you connected, warm, and safe if (when) the lights go out.

Layer up like an Arctic explorer! Store extra gloves, winter hats, scarves, thermal underwear, and warm socks for each family member. Prepare a personal warmth arsenal for those cold winter storms.

7. Winterize Your Vehicle

Winter emergency kit waiting in the car including hat gloves boots and scarf.

Is your car ready for winter wonderland (or chaos)? Consider upgrading to snow tires for better grip in deep snow or adding tire chains if you expect icy roads. And don’t forget to toss a flashlight in your glove compartment—visibility is key! Oh, and keep that gas tank full!

Your car isn’t just for getting from point A to point B—during a snowstorm, it becomes your mobile survival pod. Pack a wintry emergency kit in your trunk with essentials like blankets, water, snacks, a shovel, an ice scraper, jumper cables, and some kitty litter or sand for extra traction if you get stuck on ice. Be prepared, stay safe, and keep warm!

8. Monitor Weather Updates And Charge Your Phone

Playing music on a stylish retro radio player on a wooden table.

Don’t let a blizzard catch you off guard! Before the snowstorm hits, ensure your phone charges fully. Having a backup phone or portable charger ready is also a good idea.

Download reliable weather apps like Weather Channel or AccuWeather for the latest storm updates. Investing in a battery-powered or hand-crank radio is also wise—it can provide crucial forecast updates if the power goes out.

Finally, tune into local news channels or follow your local weather service on social media for real-time alerts and updates. Stay safe and warm!

9. Clear Gutters And Drains

Cleaning the clogged roof gutters of dirt debris and fallen tree litter.

Here’s another arduous task (lol) that must get done. Thoroughly cleaning your gutters and removing leaves, twigs, tree litter, and debris can help prevent costly and damaging ice dams.

Also – ensure your downspouts are clear and direct water away from your foundation to avoid water damage or flooding.

Think of your home’s drainage system as its circulatory system during winter—clogged gutters are like blocked arteries, putting your entire home at risk of water damage and costly repairs.

10. Stock Firewood Or Propane

Stacked and seasoned firewood supply for winter home heating.

Fireplaces are lifesavers during winter power outages—but only if you have enough fuel!

Stock up on seasoned firewood, or ensure you have plenty of propane. This fuel supply is your warmth insurance policy! It will help transform your home into a cozy haven when wintry temperatures plummet.

Firewood also creates a cozy ambiance that can help reduce stress while keeping you warm. Relax and enjoy the crackling fire while snow swirls outdoors!

11. Insulate Windows And Doors

Gluing a sealing rubber tape to insulate the window from cold breezes.

Draft-proofing your home is like setting up an invisible barrier against winter’s chill. Use weatherstripping, plastic window insulation kits, and draft stoppers to seal every crack and gap that could let in cold air.

It’s a small investment that pays big dividends in comfort—keeping your home cozy and your heating bills from skyrocketing.

12. Create A Communication Plan

Writing down contacts from the phone into a notebook.

In the chaos of a winter blizzard, communication is your lifeline. Create a family plan for staying in touch if cell towers are down or the power goes out. Designate an out-of-area contact, share emergency information, and consider investing in hand-crank or battery-powered two-way radios as backup communication.

Remember your neighbors! Strong community ties are your most potent survival tool. Build relationships with those around you, especially elderly or disabled neighbors. Check-in on them during a storm and make sure they are okay.

13. Protect Water Pipes

Water pipe with insulation to protect from chilly winter weather.

Frozen pipes can cause significant damage—leading to flooding and costly repairs. To prevent frozen pipe bursts, insulate pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, and garages with foam pipe insulation or heat tape. These materials help keep pipes warm during extreme cold and reduce the risk of freezing.

Here are two more vital tips to protect your wintry pipes.

Open cabinet doors under sinks, especially those on exterior walls, so warmer air can circulate near the pipes.
During freezing weather, letting faucets drip slightly can keep water moving, reducing pressure buildup and lowering the chances of a burst pipe.

Finally, learn how your plumbing works! Learn to shut off your main water valve if a pipe freezes or ruptures. Quick action can minimize damage and prevent a disaster.

14. Stock Pet And Farm Animal Supplies

Jack Russell terrier standing in the snowy forest.

Winter preparedness isn’t just about protecting yourself. It’s also about safeguarding your pets and farm animals!

Start by building a winter supply kit for your furry (and feathered) friends. Stock up on extra food, water, and the medications they need. Add warm bedding, protective gear, coats, or blankets for smaller pets to keep them cozy in the cold. Smaller animals are especially vulnerable to low temperatures, so provide them with a safe, warm space.

Farm animals require equally thoughtful preparation. Chickens, goats, and horses need special care to survive harsh winter weather. Ensure they have easy access to fresh, unfrozen water.

Offer farm animals a dry, sheltered area to protect them from wind and snow. And keep extra feed on hand if you can’t reach the store during a snowstorm.

Conclusion

I know what it’s like when you have two feet of snow in the seven-day forecast and haven’t had a chance to prepare! Hopefully, my checklist helps you whether you face a winter storm warning or a regular winter weather advisory.

What about you?

Are you ready to face the snow this winter?
Do you have everything you need in case the power goes out?
Do you use a snowblower when the snow stacks up? Or an old-school snow shovel?

Thanks again for reading.

Have a great day!

Preparing For Winter Snowstorms And Blizzards – Your Ultimate All-In-One Guide