Rose, Nebraska

... Winter Storm Warning now in effect until 6 am CST /5 am MST/
Friday...
... Blizzard Warning in effect from 6 am CST /5 am MST/ Friday to
noon CST /11 am MST/ Saturday...

The National Weather Service in North Platte has issued a
Blizzard Warning... which is in effect from 6 am CST /5 am MST/
Friday to noon CST /11 am MST/ Saturday. The Winter Storm Warning
is now in effect until 6 am CST /5 am MST/ Friday.

* Timing... snow is likely to spread into north central and
northwest Nebraska overnight tonight and continue through the Saturday.

* Snow accumulations... storm total accumulations of 4 to 11 inches
are likely across the area through Friday... with the heaviest
accumulations along Highway 20 and in Boyd and Holt counties

* winds... north winds will increase to 25 to 35 mph late tonight.
By Friday... northerly winds of 30 to 40 mph... with gusts to 55
mph are possible over northern Nebraska.

* Impacts... periods of snow combined with strong northerly winds
will create dangerous travel conditions across north central and
northwest Nebraska through the day Friday and Saturday. The
combination of wind and heavy snow will create blizzard
conditions... whiteouts and impossible travel... especially over
open country. Dangerous wind chills of 15 to 25 below zero are
likely Friday and Saturday.

Precautionary/preparedness actions...

A Winter Storm Warning means severe winter weather conditions are
expected or occurring. Significant amounts of snow are forecast
that will make travel dangerous. Only travel in an emergency. If
you must travel... keep an extra flashlight... food... and water in
your vehicle in case of an emergency. Strong winds are also
possible. This will make travel very hazardous or impossible.

A Blizzard Warning means severe winter weather conditions are
expected or occurring. Falling and blowing snow with strong winds
and poor visibilities are likely. This will lead to whiteout
conditions... making travel extremely dangerous. Do not travel. If
you must travel... have a winter survival kit with you. If you get
stranded... stay with your vehicle.

12/23/2009 0730 PM

Bassett, Rock County.

Snow e1.0 inch, reported by co-op observer.





12/23/2009 0730 PM

Bassett, Rock County.

Snow e1.0 inch, reported by co-op observer.

... 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.