The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recently published its winter weather outlook, covering the months of December 2024 through February 2025, and predicts a mixed bag of weather conditions, which will vary by region across the U.S.
The key factor in the diverse outlook is an emerging La Niña, the natural climate pattern influenced by cooler-than-average temperatures in the Pacific Ocean near the equator. While a weaker La Niña is predicted, cooler equatorial-Pacific waters will still push the jet stream to the north, delivering colder and wetter conditions to the Pacific Northwest, the upper Midwest and the Great Lakes region, and drier, warmer conditions to the southern United States. Existing drought conditions in the South are not expected to be alleviated but will likely worsen.
The NOAA report emphasizes that snow forecasts depend upon the strength and track of winter storms and cannot reliably be predicted more than a week in advance. With that in mind, their predictions only indicate if more or less precipitation is likely overall, but not specifically as rain, snow or ice.
AccuWeather forecasts similar La Niña effects but also notes that water temperatures in the Gulf of Mexico are expected to be higher than average, which would likely cause milder air masses for the central and eastern U.S. Despite lower precipitation expectations for the South, lower Midwest and Gulf Coast, the milder, warmer air can cause more severe storms and weather should they occur.
The polar vortex is also expected to return in February, sending bitterly cold temperatures throughout the Northeast, Midwest, and Mid-Atlantic states.
Regardless of the variable outlook and region, winter is likely to deliver colder-to-freezing temperatures to much of the U.S. periodically, and preparing your property is crucial to avoid preventable disasters. We’ve compiled a list of tips to safeguard your home or property:
Regular Maintenance of Systems and Appliances
- Schedule maintenance for HVAC systems, chimneys and any other appliances that will see heavier use in the colder season.
- Don’t forget to inspect and maintain other home appliances to prevent malfunctions or breakdowns at inopportune times.
Water Damage Prevention
- Inspect and clean gutters to prevent water buildup and potential roof leaks.
- Turn off outdoor water supplies and cover exterior spigots and drain hoses to prevent freezing and bursting pipes.
- Insulate pipes in unheated areas to avoid freezing during cold weather.
- Keep the water flowing. Run a small trickle of water through your faucets in freezing weather and keep the cabinet and utility doors open.
Fire Safety
Heating appliances add fire risk during the winter months. Routine fire prevention maintenance is essential:
- Ensure smoke detectors are functioning correctly and have fresh batteries.
- Have a multi-rated fire extinguisher readily accessible in emergencies, and ensure you know how to use it properly.
Holiday Safety
The holidays and celebrations scattered throughout November and December encourage gatherings and reunion opportunities among family and friends. Unfortunately, they also entail additional fire and electrical hazards with celebratory meals and decorations. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) indicates that Thanksgiving has the most cooking fires, with more than three times the daily average for cooking incidents. Christmas Day and Eve are second and third, each with nearly twice the number of cooking incidents on average.
Take caution concerning these fire and electrical hazards:
- Never leave cooking appliances or candles unattended while in use.
- Keep flammable items, such as candles and decorations, away from heat sources.
- Never leave candles burning when you are not present.
- Avoid overloading electrical outlets with holiday decorations and lighting.
- Never chain power strips and extension cords.
- Inspect holiday lights for frayed wires or damage before use.
Emergency Preparedness
Lastly, these items should be part of a preparedness plan at any time of year:
- Create a family emergency plan and communicate it with all household members.
- Prepare an emergency kit with essentials such as water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, and important documents.
By following these safety and preparedness tips, homeowners can minimize the risk of accidents and property damage during the holiday and cold weather season. If an unexpected mishap does occur, our expertise and fast, reliable services are available to help restore your home.
For more information, contact us at 844-413-3130. We are ready to respond 24/7/365.
