Winter Storm (WS) Landon is forecasted to impact much of the central United States through the northeast Tuesday evening through late Friday night. WS Landon will bring a variety of winter weather hazards, including heavy snow, sleet and freezing rain.
Heavy snow is expected over the Southern Rockies and from the Southern/Central Plains and Middle Mississippi Valley through the Great Lakes/Ohio Valley to the interior Northeast. Heavy ice (from rain and freezing rain) accumulations are expected from Texas through the Ohio River Valley and then into the Northeast as the strong cold front moves eastward. Forecasts are indicating that after the front passes, temperatures will be 15-25 degrees below average for at least a couple of days. Winter Storm Watches and Warnings have been issued for much of these areas at this time.
Power outages, downed trees and power lines, and hazardous road conditions, due to heavy snow and ice accumulations are potential hazards from this storm.
If you or one of your facilities is in the path of this storm, following steps are recommended in preparation for this storm:
Continue to monitor local weather forecasts for updates on the storm’s progression.
Clean out roof drains, gutters, downspouts, and storm drains of debris, leaves, etc.
For areas with existing snow cover on roofs and the ground, ensure a clear path to the drains is available for rainwater to flow down during the storm.
Test your emergency generator (if you have one) and check fuel levels. If low, refill the tank.
Always operate portable generators outdoors.
Test your snow blower (if you have one) and check fuel levels. If low, refill the tank.
Monitor indoor temperatures, especially where water piping is located, to ensure the temperatures stay above 40°F at all times to prevent frozen pipes.
Keep outside hydrants and water valves accessible in the event of emergency.
For businesses that do not have a generator, shutdown any electronic equipment that could be adversely affected by a sudden power outage.
If power was lost, do not reenergize equipment until the utility company indicates it is safe to do so.
If electronics have been exposed to or submerged in water, do not reenergize until they have been dried out and inspected by a qualified contractor.
Charge any electronics and keep a supply of batteries on hand.
Use battery powered or crank flashlights for lighting. DO NOT use candles.
Keep vents clear of any snow build-up.
Clear a path for any oil, diesel or propane fill deliveries that may be needed.
NEVER touch or come into contact with downed power lines.
For more information on what to do if you discover frozen pipes, please see our online Knowledge Center at Winter Freeze Alert.
Take pictures and/or videos of any property damage.
Document any damage to your property – building and contents.
Retain any replaced parts, such as a frozen pipe or sprinkler head, for inspection.
Contact a remediation company to mitigate damages, if needed.
Make any ‘temporary’ repairs
Do not make permanent repairs until the loss is reported and inspected by an insurance adjuster.
Keep all receipts, bills and invoices to substantiate claim costs.
You can contact the Risk Strategies "Claims Hotline" at: 1-800-363-0067 or email claims@risk-strategies.com to report a claim.
The contents of this article are for general informational purposes only and Risk Strategies Company makes no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy or completeness of any information contained herein. Any recommendations contained herein are intended to provide insight based on currently available information for consideration and should be vetted against applicable legal and business needs before application to a specific client.