Madrid, Nebraska

... Winter Weather Advisory now in effect until noon CST /11 am
MST/ Saturday...

The Winter Weather Advisory is now in effect until noon CST
/11 am MST/ Saturday.

* Timing... snow is expected to develop Friday morning and continue
into Saturday.

* Snow accumulations... additional snow accumulations of 1 to 4 inches
are possible.

* Winds... north winds will increase to 25 to 35 mph... with gusts
to 45 mph Friday and Saturday.

* Impacts... windy conditions will cause widespread blowing and
drifting of the existing snow on the ground and any additional
snow that accumulates. Travel will become hazardous Friday and
Saturday across southwestern Nebraska due to blowing snow.

Precautionary/preparedness actions...

A Winter Weather Advisory for blowing snow means that
visibilities will be limited due to strong winds blowing snow
around. Use caution when traveling... especially in open areas.

12/24/2009 0915 am

Madrid, Perkins County.

Snow m1.1 inch, reported by public.


            The official NWS cooperative weather observer in Madrid
            measured 1.1 inches of snow thus far from the storm.




12/24/2009 0915 am

Madrid, Perkins County.

Snow m1.1 inch, reported by public.


            The official NWS cooperative weather observer in Madrid
            measured 1.1 inches of snow thus far from the storm.

... Winter storm warnings and blizzard warnings are in effect for
parts of western and north central Nebraska...

Possible impacts and safety rules are listed below...

Heavy snowfall and strong winds frequently produce deep impassable
snow drifts... especially on east west roads. Travel should not be
attempted on these routes during periods of heavy snow and strong
winds. Road closures are possible in open country and rural areas.

By Saturday... snow drifts could develop in some areas blocking
roads. There is the potential for people to be snowed in until Road
crews can respond.

During the storm you could lose power. At home you should have a
flashlight and extra batteries... a battery powered weather radio and
a portable radio. You might want to have extra food and water on
hand... as well as first aid supplies and extra prescription drugs. If
possible you should have an emergency heating source like a
fireplace... wood stove or space heater. Make sure proper ventilation
is used to prevent Carbon monoxide poisoning. You should also have
matches and candles readily available in case you lose power.

On The Farm or ranch... animals should be moved to sheltered areas if
possible. Additional storage of feed and water may limit the
potential deaths of animals during and after the winter storm.

Motorists should carry a winter survival kit in the vehicle. The kit
can consist of... blankets or sleeping bags... a first aid
kit... knife... high calorie food... extra clothing... a container of
water... shovel... windshield scraper... a tool kit... Tow rope... and
booster cables. If possible do not travel alone... and if you must
travel... let someone know your Route and timetable. Weather
conditions may become very dangerous or even life threatening... if
you are not prepared to take appropriate actions to protect yourself
and your family.

If you are caught outside... you should attempt to find shelter
immediately. If no shelter is available you should prepare a
windbreak for protection. Attempt to stay dry and stay awake. Cover
all exposed parts of the body. Exercise from time to time by
vigorously moving your arms and legs to keep blood circulating and to
keep warm. Do not eat snow.

If you are caught in a vehicle... you should stay in your vehicle
unless shelter can be seen just yards away. Disorientation occurs
quickly in wind driven snow and Cold. Run the motor about 10
minutes each hour for heat. Make sure the exhaust pipe is not
blocked. Keep a window cracked to avoid Carbon monoxide poisoning.
Make yourself visible to rescuers by turning on the dome light
when running the engine or tie a colored cloth on your antenna.

If you are at home or in a building... you should stay inside. If you
must go outside... dress warmly in several layers of light clothing
and remain outside for only brief periods of time.