As winter sets in, one of the most common natural disasters that people face is snowdrifts. Snowdrifts can cause a lot of problems for communities, from blocked roads to power outages and even fatalities. In this post, we will take a closer look at what snowdrifts are, how they form, and what you can do to prepare for them.
What are Snowdrifts?
Snowdrifts are piles of snow that accumulate due to wind patterns. These piles can range in size from small drifts on sidewalks to massive mounds that block entire highways. One thing that makes snowdrifts so dangerous is their unpredictability. Even if you’ve experienced snowstorms before, it’s impossible to know exactly where or how large the resulting drifts will be.
How Do Snowdrifts Form?
Snowdrift formation begins with a combination of heavy snowfall and strong winds. When these two factors come together, the result is a blizzard – a severe storm characterized by low visibility and high winds.
As the blizzard rages on, the wind picks up loose snow particles off the ground and blows them around until they settle in new locations as drifts. The shape and height of each drift depends on various factors such as wind direction and speed, terrain features like hills or valleys which affect airflow patterns across surfaces covered with fresh powder.
Why Are Snow Drift So Dangerous?
There are several reasons why snow drifts pose significant threats during winter storms:
1) Roadblocks: Large drift accumulation often causes roadblocks making it difficult for vehicles to pass through thus leading to essential services being cut off.
2) Power Outages: Falling trees caused by weighty ice build-up may fall over power lines causing blackouts or disrupted electricity supply
3) Death Traps: People have lost their lives while attempting to cross large accumulated heaps of drifting snow which end up burying them alive.
How to Prepare for Snowdrifts
With the unpredictable nature of snowdrift formation, it is essential to prepare adequately. Here are some tips:
1) Stay Informed: Watch weather reports and listen to local news broadcasts regularly during winter months so that you can stay informed about incoming storms and their potential effects on your community.
2) Stock up Essential Supplies: Ensure you have an adequate supply of food, water, medications, and other necessities in case you’re stuck indoors for several days due to blocked roads or power outages.
3) Have a Plan: Develop a plan with your family members outlining what steps to take if there is an emergency such as evacuation or sheltering in place.
4) Keep Your Property Clear: Reduce the risk of accumulating snow around your property by clearing driveways, sidewalks or roofs which could otherwise lead to accidents, leaks or even collapse under the weight of accumulated ice.
5) Use Caution When Traveling: Avoid driving through large drifts as much as possible. Even if they seem passable at first glance, hidden obstacles like rocks or debris underneath could cause damage or accidents.
6) Help Others Whenever Possible: Offer assistance where needed especially elderly neighbors who may struggle with shoveling snow off their properties. It’s also helpful to check-in on them regularly throughout winter months.
Conclusion
While snowdrifts are a common feature during winters across many parts of the world, preparation and caution can go a long way in avoiding unpleasant incidents. Understanding how they form and knowing what precautions should be taken will help safeguard not only personal safety but also that of fellow community members around us. So always be prepared this winter!