#1978 snowstorm

[dprs99]

The Great Snowstorm of 1967: The Snow-Lover's Dream

The Great Snowstorm of 1967: The Snow-Lover’s Dream

I hear people talk about the snowstorm of 1978. I’ve seen pictures and it was pretty bad. We missed the storm because we were working for a ministry in Fort Worth, Texas, where we had moved the year before. During our first winter in sunny Texas, we had seventeen inches of snow, more than the state had seen in many years. I think God did it to say, “Welcome to Texas, ya’ll!” Texans didn’t know…

[so-much-for-subtlety]

Ah! nyc mayors, a fine tradition of corruption scandal and incompetence!

Vincent R. Impellitteri (1950-1953, 3 years): Faced unproven accusations of ties to organized crime.

Robert F. Wagner Jr. (1954-1965, 11 years): Dealt with corruption scandals in the city's buildings department.

John Lindsay (1966-1973, 7 years): Mishandled the 1968 teachers' strike and the 1969 snowstorm, leading to public outcry.

Abraham Beame (1974-1977, 3 years): Presided over New York City's financial crisis and near-bankruptcy paving the way for big banks to set their terms.

Edward I. Koch (1978-1989, 11 years): Faced corruption scandals in his administration, though not personally implicated.

David Dinkins (1990-1993, 3 years): Heavily criticized for his handling of the Crown Heights riot in 1991.

Rudy “Four Seasons” Giuliani (1994-2001, 7 years): Embroiled in public scandal due to extramarital affairs and a messy divorce during his tenure.

Michael Bloomberg (2002-2013, 11 years): Criticized for the controversial "stop-and-frisk" policing policy and overturning term limits to run for a third term.

Bill de Blasio (2014-2021, 7 years): Investigated for campaign finance violations, potential conflicts of interest, defending aggressive NYPD tactics against BLM protesters, and imposing controversial curfew that led to more confrontations.

Eric Adams (2022-present, 2 years so far): Faced nepotism allegations for appointing his brother as deputy NYPD commissioner and questions about his residency - now indicted for charges from FBI (likely for accepting bribes from Turkish government)​​​​​​​​

[broomsticks]

wolfstar autumn(ish) fic rec list 🐾🍂

*: i tried but not quite

gorgeous bingo created by @moonwalker94 for hpfc!

1 - JUMPER - An Enigma Wrapped in a Jumper by @squidgilator (5k, G) - mwpp-era fluffity fluff, featuring my FAVORITE pining idiot sirius:

He was an inscrutable enigma, Remus was. An enigma wrapped in a mystery wrapped in a puzzle wrapped in a jumper. "Not that much of a mystery," muttered Remus, and Sirius wondered how many of his last few thoughts he'd said aloud. "Just the bit about being an enigma wrapped in a mystery wrapped in a—something— wrapped in a jumper," said Remus, curiously. "Why?" "Er," said Sirius, and vowed to keep his thoughts inside his head from now on. "No reason."

bonus rec: The Sweater Bet by Deya (6k, T). silly (extended) marauders shenanigans: why is your boyfriend wearing a sweater at the beach and how do you get him to take it off??

-🍁-

2 - STORM - The Weather Inside by earlybloomingparentheses (43k, E)

The bright beam of sunshine that spilled into the compartment on the Hogwarts Express at the start of first year just as Sirius stepped through the sliding door (…) an accident of timing. The freak snowstorm the day after the Incident, when Remus was curled gut-punched on the floor of the Shrieking Shack (…) a trick of air currents and cold fronts. And now, Sirius at the window of his and James’ flat, the storm outside roaring and Sirius turned to face the rain lashing the pane, dressed in black and looking from this angle like a Sturm and Drang painting, all heroic isolation and inner turmoil—why think anything of it?

bonus rec: How to Suffer a Storm by gayagape (11.6k, T), lighthouse au from the 2016 r/s games.

-🍁-

3 - BIKE RIDE - This Is Not Your Year by montparnasse (17k, E). first war angst and pining, montparnasse - that’s it that’s the rec. so many quotes i wanted to pull.

“Holding onto your favorite bits?” “Remember there’s ice on the roads. Also we’re possibly being hunted.” “I’ll go slow.” “You’re so sweet,” said Remus, “always with all my extremities and orifices in mind.” On the seat he pressed very close to Sirius, hips first, the way he always did. “It’d be nice if someone around here ever thought of mine.”

bonus rec: There Is a Light That Never Goes Out by @wanderingbandurria (2.6k, T). a summer road trip (coughahem getaway car whomst?) leads to the Realization of Feelings.

-🍁-

4 - FIRESIDE CHATTER - Goetia by @biremus and @kember-writes (44k, T). regency au, monster/horror au, Not Your Everyday fireside chat 👀 (also, some incredible art!)

The red coals in the fireplace provided just enough illumination for Sirius to watch as Dorcas lifted the silver bell in her hand, and rang it once. “Lord of Hell, we call you forth.”

bonus rec: Your Little Head by @paulamcg (1k, G) for, appropriately, r/s fireside tales. such a fascinating outsider pov wolfstar. no fireside warmth to be found here 😈🔥

-🍁-

5 - BAKING - The Great Biscuit Calamity of 1978, and Other Such Disasters by @lunapwrites (8k, T). also hinny. post-second war, our favorite disasters being properly domestic.

"How did you even manage that, anyway? Like, I'm equal parts horrified and impressed, I am." "I was only trying to open the bag--" "With what? An Exploding Charm?"

bonus rec: A First Taste by LuminousGloom (3.8k, T) - a fluffy mwpp-era cooking at hogwarts!

-🍁-

6 - STAR GAZING - this ficlet for meee by @tahtahfornow, for the tumblr prompt game things you said under the stars and in the grass. your writing your writing 😍😍🥰🥰 (also thank you for putting this on ao3 and not making me have to ritually sacrifice something to tumblr search)

Damp grass scratches against the napes of their necks, presses into the backs of their Oxfords; the star-soaked night sky blankets them like a soft flannel. The moon is waning, a fat yellow grin pasted above them, and Remus thinks maybe, wildly, that for once it is not mocking him, that its smile is true, that tonight—just tonight—it is on his side.

bonus rec: star talking, atop the astronomy tower. The things that lurk in the dark by TheDivineComedian (4.7k, T). one of my absolute favorite mwpp era, incredible marauders characterizations and character-insights in a slice-of-life.

-🍁-

7 - HOT CHOCOLATE - Tight Spaces by @krethes (3.2k, T) - mwpp-era remus-trauma / remus’ werewolf childhood. lots of hurt but tons of lovely comfort after, and delightful marauders friendship.

Instead, he was jostled in a bone-crushing hug, sloshing hot-but-not-scalding cocoa on the blanket in the suddenness. Sirius buried his head into his shoulder and held him so tightly Remus thought he might snap in half. Remus's cheeks were wet and, embarrassed, he realized he was crying. He hadn't expected such a response from Sirius, who was usually joking or brooding, never something so gentle, so sincere.

bonus recs: naturally - Did You Miss Me? (600k, E) by @krethes and @fantismal, and Power the Dark Lord Knows Not (300k, E) by @fantismal and Jormandugr (nearly perfect chapter timing, too, hahaha)

-🍁-

8 - APPLE PICKING - As Red As Hearts And Autumn by Rosie_Rues (47k, G), mwpp sixth year. sooo i went a bit out-of-season with some of these recs, but this fic is as autumn as it gets —

“Excuse me,” Sirius says, too loudly. “Why isn’t anyone paying attention to me?” “The central refrain of Sirius Black’s life,” Remus murmurs and finds himself being tackled by a large, black dog, intent on washing his face. He struggles and yelps but none of the others, traitors all, come to his rescue. Sirius changes back but stays sitting on Remus, twisting round to say, “Your apples are useless.” Peter snorts and opens his mouth and a barrage of apple cores hits him before he can speak.

bonus rec: Flesh in the fruit by @girl-with-goats (2.3k, M). not apples but peaches, and not peaches but peaches 👀😏🍑

anyway happy spooky season 🍂🧡💛❤️🍁

[coochiequeens]

If men can’t be dedicated enough to science to go for a few months without harassing, assaulting or exposing women to porn maybe they are the ones who should be discouraged from entering Antarctica.

For almost as long as the continent has been known of, Antarctica, a wild, white expanse of ice shelves, glaciers and mountainous ridges at the foot of the globe, has been the domain of men.

But images in the popular imagination of bearded men boldly heading into snowstorms could slowly be fading into the whiteness.

Today, women lead expeditions and research stations, make up large parts of support teams on the continent, and are active in leading policy conversations.

Reports uncovering sexual harassment and assault in overwhelmingly male environments, combined with a drive to recognise women’s contributions and efforts to overcome barriers to entry have all contributed to a gradual cultural change.

“We need to decide what kind of a future we want to see for Antarctica, and which people we want making decisions about that future,” said Dr Hanne Nielsen, a lecturer in Antarctic law and governance at the University of Tasmania.

“Then we can decide how we make sure that those people have – and retain – a seat at the table.”

Antarctica was first sighted in January 1820 by a Russian expedition to the far south, and the first women to visit the region did so with husbands working on whaling vessels during the first half of the 20th century.

“The human history of Antarctica is really quite recent, but the history of women being able to travel there is even more recent than that – but that didn’t mean that women didn’t want to travel to the far south of the globe,” said Dr Nielsen.

Predictably, attitudes to women’s participation lagged far behind.

When the Americans Edith Ronne and Jennie Darlington mooted the idea of staying on the continent over the winter of 1948 – which they eventually did – Darlington’s husband told her that “there are some things women don’t do … They don’t become pope or president – or go down to the Antarctic.”

The first woman to conduct scientific research in Antarctica was the Soviet geologist Maria Klenova in 1957, but her work did not immediately lead to more female scientists in the far south: many Antarctic programmes argued that women’s presence could prove disruptive.

In 1969, more than a decade after the US established a permanent presence on Antarctica, an all-women scientific team deployed there prompted a New York Times reporter to dub their work “an incursion” into the “largest male sanctuary remaining on this planet”.

Women have also been agents of sovereignty to assert territorial claims.

An Argentinian, Silvia Morello, then seven months pregnant, was flown to the country’s Esperanza Base and, on 7 January 1978, gave birth to a son, Emilio Palma, who became the first person to be born on Antarctica.

But for those women who wanted to study the continent, role models have been few and far between.

“When I was in school, science wasn’t really a career girls would think about,” said Catalina Silva, 23, a marine biology student at Chile’s Universidad Austral in Valdivia, where more than half of her 2018 intake were women.

“Marine biology didn’t seem achievable because you’d just see men in science. If you don’t see people like you in the places you want to reach, it’s hard to know where to aim.”

This summer season, she spent a month at Chile’s Escudero Base working as a lab assistant, sifting through seawater samples searching for isopods – the subject of her thesis.

The Chilean biologist Dr Leyla Cárdenas, 47, came to Antarctica for the first time 13 years ago and has returned to the continent several times to further her research on ecosystems in the far south.

In 2020, she was named the first ever female dean of her university’s science faculty, but says that stereotypes still persist for women studying the continent.

“Who’s going to cook? Women, of course. Who will carry the heavy kit? The men,” said Dr Cárdenas. “That’s how it’s always been, defined by gender roles.”

Before leaving Punta Arenas to work or stay at Chilean bases, every member of each expedition must complete an induction on harassment protocols and awareness.

Even so, this year two support staff members were sent home following incidents.

While women’s experiences of harassment and assault in remote Antarctic research stations have long been known, two damning reports published at the end of last year threw the issues into stark relief.

In October 2022, the US National Science Foundation (NSF) said it was “appalled by the reports of sexual harassment, assaults, and stalking”highlighted by its study; and a report into diversity, equity and inclusion within the Australian Antarctic Program described a “culture of widespread, low-level sexual harassment that permeates stations”.

That macho culture was typified by the ceiling of a hut at Australia’s Mawson Station which had been plastered with nearly 100 pornographic images.

Both reports make for harrowing reading.

In the NSF’s document, 95% of the women interviewed knew someone who had experienced assault or harassment within the Antarctic programme. One interviewee was quoted as saying that “[sexual assault and sexual harassment] are just facts of life [here], just like the fact that Antarctica is cold and the wind blows.”

Among a series of incidents highlighted, one male supervisor reportedly attempted to break into female colleagues’ rooms using his master keys. One woman was so frightened she carried a hammer around base with her.

Following the publication of the NSF report, the organisation says it created a single, confidential point of contact for victims, increased on-ice support services, put listening sessions in place and enhanced physical security measures.

Nevertheless, diversity and inclusion still have a long way to go on Antarctica.

With such high turnover of scientific and support staff in every summer cohort, the female population of Antarctica at any given time is difficult to judge.

However, one 2016 study found that 60% of early-career polar researchers are women. Retaining them in the field is another matter.

“I think it is important not only to increase the number of women working in Antarctica, but also the number from different geographic, linguistic or disciplinary backgrounds,” said Dr Nielsen.

“The more perspectives you have the richer that conversation can be – and the more likely we are to be able to respond to the huge challenges facing the polar regions.”

[smithbrainz]

I suppose it's only proper that I honor my Masshole roots by posting Universal Hub's French Toast Alert System graphic. If you're in Massachusetts, the hint that an approaching snowstorm might turn severe is enough to turn supermarkets into cage matches. Be careful--that grandma in the dairy aisle might be a berserker.

(Harvey Leonard, now retired, was a young TV meteorologist in Boston in February 1978 when a massive "perfect storm" of a blizzard struck New England. Snow fell so heavily and quickly that people were stranded on the highways trying to get home; several died before they could be rescued. It was a major catastrophe before meteorologists had the ability to fine-tune weather predictions like they can now. We joke a lot about prepping for snowstorms but Blizzard of '78 veterans know how serious they can turn.)

[blogbridgekethy]

Snow Total Reports of West Orange, NJ & Chelmsford, MA  

Snow total reports bring significant excitement to weather enthusiasts and local communities alike. They are not just about numbers; they tell the stories of winter's ferocity and beauty, and their impact on daily life. In this post, we delve into the top 10 reports of snow total West Orange NJ, and Chelmsford, MA, offering a detailed analysis that highlights historical context, regional effects, and future trends. Join us as we explore these snowy marvels through the lens of Certified Snowfall Totals.

West Orange, NJ Snow Total Reports

West Orange, NJ, a city known for its rich history and prestigious universities, also has its share of memorable snowfall events. Here are the top 5 snowfall events that left a lasting impression:

1. The Blizzard of 1978

Date: February 6-7, 1978

Total Snowfall: 27.1 inches

Historical Context: This infamous blizzard paralyzed the entire New England region. Schools and businesses were shut for days, and snowdrifts reached up to 15 feet in some areas.

Impact: The storm led to significant changes in emergency preparedness and snow removal strategies, making it a cornerstone in West Orange’s winter history.

2. Snowstorm Nemo (2013)

Date: February 8-9, 2013

Total Snowfall: 24.9 inches

Historical Context: Named after the famous Disney character, Nemo brought heavy snowfall and strong winds, creating blizzard conditions.

Impact: The storm tested the city's snow removal capabilities and highlighted the importance of modern forecasting technologies.

3. January 2015 Blizzard

Date: January 26-27, 2015

Total Snowfall: 24.6 inches

Historical Context: This storm was part of the notorious 2014-2015 winter season, which is remembered for record-breaking snowfall across Massachusetts.

Impact: Public transportation services were significantly disrupted, and the city saw an increase in snow removal budgets in subsequent years.

4. April Fool's Day Storm (1997)

Date: March 31-April 1, 1997

Total Snowfall: 25.4 inches

Historical Context: This late-season storm caught many by surprise, dumping heavy snow at a time when spring was expected.

Impact: The storm underscored the unpredictability of New England weather and the necessity for year-round preparedness.

5. December 2003 Nor'easter

Date: December 6-7, 2003

Total Snowfall: 23.6 inches

Historical Context: This early winter storm set the tone for a snowy season, causing widespread disruptions during the holiday period.

Impact: It highlighted the need for effective communication between meteorologists and the public to manage expectations and ensure safety.

Chelmsford, MA Snow Total Reports

Chelmsford, MA, with its scenic landscapes and vibrant community, has experienced its own share of significant snowfall events. Let's explore the top 5 snowfall events that have shaped its winters:

1. January 1996 Nor'easter

Date: January 6-8, 1996

Total Snowfall: 25.9 inches

Historical Context: This storm was part of a series of massive snowstorms that hit the eastern United States, causing widespread disruptions.

Impact: The storm prompted improvements in snow removal equipment and emergency response plans in Chelmsford.

2. Snowstorm Jonas (2016)

Date: January 22-24, 2016

Total Snowfall: 31.9 inches

Historical Context: Jonas was one of the most severe snowstorms in recent memory, affecting millions across the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast.

Impact: The storm led to a reevaluation of winter preparedness strategies and highlighted the importance of community resilience.

3. February 2010 Snowstorm

Date: February 5-6, 2010

Total Snowfall: 25.2 inches

Historical Context: This storm was part of the "Snowmageddon" event that hit the Mid-Atlantic States, breaking numerous snowfall records.

Impact: The snowfall caused widespread power outages and significant transportation disruptions.

4. Valentine's Day Blizzard (2007)

Date: February 13-14, 2007

Total Snowfall: 19.4 inches

Historical Context: This blizzard brought heavy snowfall and strong winds, creating hazardous conditions across the region.

Impact: It underscored the importance of timely weather warnings and efficient emergency response.

5. December 2009 Snowstorm

Date: December 19-20, 2009

Total Snowfall: 16.7 inches

Historical Context: This pre-Christmas snowstorm brought a winter wonderland to Chelmsford, but also significant challenges.

Impact: The storm highlighted the need for effective snow removal strategies during the holiday season.

Comparison and Trends

Similarities

Both snow total West Orange NJ and snow total Chelmsford MA have experienced some of their most impactful storms during the winter months of January and February. These storms often coincide with Nor'easters that bring heavy snowfall and strong winds to the East Coast. The resulting disruptions in both cities have led to improvements in emergency response and snow removal strategies.

Differences

While West Orange tends to experience more intense and frequent snowfall due to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, Chelmsford’s snow events are often influenced by larger storm systems that move up through the Mid-Atlantic. Additionally, Chelmsford has seen significant snowfall events as part of larger regional storms, such as the 2016 Snowstorm Jonas, which affected multiple states.

Recurring Trends

Increased Snowfall in Recent Years: Both locations have seen a trend towards more intense snowfall events in the past two decades.

Improved Preparedness: Each major snow event has led to advancements in snow removal technology and emergency response protocols.

Climate Change Influence: The variability and intensity of snowstorms are increasingly being linked to climate change, impacting the frequency and severity of these events.

The Future of Snow Reporting

Technological Advancements

The future of snow reporting will be heavily influenced by technological advancements. Enhanced satellite imagery, real-time data analytics, and AI-driven predictive models will provide more accurate and timely snow total reports. These innovations will help both local authorities and weather enthusiasts stay better informed.

Climate Change Impact

As climate change continues to alter weather patterns, we can expect shifts in snowfall trends. These changes may result in more unpredictable and intense snowstorms, making accurate reporting even more critical.

Infrastructure Improvements

Investments in infrastructure, such as better snow removal equipment and smarter urban planning, will play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of heavy snowfall on communities. These measures will ensure that cities like West Orange and Chelmsford remain resilient in the face of future snow events.

[southjerseyweb]

Massive Blizzard in New Jersey This Week in 1978

Growing up in New Jersey in the '70s, we always seemed to have one or two really big snowstorms each winter. When I talk about snow storms, I'm …

[mozart-the-meerkitten]

Since AI is a controversial hot topic right now and I've been watching Battlestar Galactica (1978) for the first time in 10+ years I'm going to make a post about what AI SHOULD be.

So yesterday I finally got to rewatch what was one of my favorite Battlestar episodes when I was a teenager, "Fire in Space". In it, the Galactica is rammed by two cylon fighters, causing massive damage to the bridge and one of their landing bays. This also starts a fire burning on multiple decks which traps a group of people in a rec room, including three main characters: Boomer, Athena, and Boxy. (post introducing Battlestar characters here)

Now, the group in the rec room are trapped by fire on both sides. They have only five oxygen masks for probably 15 people, including a number of wounded and Boxy, who is about six. The only possible escape route at this point is an air vent, which is only big enough for Boxy to get through, but as Apollo (Boxy's father) points out, Boomer would never take a chance with the little boy's life by sending him for help.

But. Boxy's constant companion is a dog named Muffet. And Muffet is a mechanical, artificially intelligent, dog. Muffet has already saved people from a dangerous situation before in "The Gun on Ice Planet Zero" when he gets help for the team stranded on the planet during a snowstorm. The crew on the bridge is still skeptical that the dog will make it though, because there are dozens of air ducts he could wander into that don't lead to the bridge. However! Apollo remembers that Boxy taught his dog to sniff out candy (as any small child would do) and tells them to put some in the bridge's air duct to lure the dog there.

It works. Muffet arrives on the bridge with a note from Boomer explaining their situation and lack of oxygen masks. They attach a bag of the masks to Muffet and send him back through the air ducts, telling him to "Find Boxy". Muffet does, bringing the masks and a note that, in a desperate attempt to stop the out-of-control fire, they're about to blow a hole in the hull of the Galactica (so basically, hold on and don't get sucked into the vacuum of space!).

And then Muffet goes back into the air ducts to rescue a fireman he'd seen trapped and injured by the blaze. He pulls the man out in the nick of time, getting half fried in the process.

So what's my point here about AI? My point is that Muffet, as a mechanical dog, can do much more than an ordinary dog and do it in a way that doesn't risk an animal's actual life. Muffet was able to go through the vents and endure the smoke because he doesn't need to breathe air. When he was damaged by the fire he can be repaired and made to work again. He is also intelligent enough to be trained and follow basic commands like a normal dog, as well as having the problem solving/prioritizing skills to bring the oxygen masks to the people who needed them first and then go back to save the fireman.

My point is that THIS is what we should be striving for with artificial intelligence: to have robots smart enough to think logically, follow commands, and who are able to go into situations that would be horrifyingly dangerous/lethal for a human or animal and save/help people. Like, Idk how to say it more clearly, but this mechanical dog from a 70's sci fi show is literally the peak of artificial intelligence we should be striving for. Emergency workers wouldn't even be losing the emotional bond they have for animals they work with, because Muffet is programmed to act like a real dog and he does! He's basically Boxy's emotional support animal. They could get sent into fires, violent areas, etc and not only be helpful but comforting to people who needed it!

Additionally, this is all taking place in a show where they literally told us that the cylons, the evil race trying to eradicate the humans, are robots who became smarter than their creators (who were not humans, btw) and outlived/killed them. Both sides of the coin are 100% present here.

Also, Muffet looks like this:

tl:dr this mechanical dog from a 1970's tv show is the peak of artificial intelligence and I don't know why we aren't making more of him.

[delulu-for-kylo]

Watch "Bellavia" on YouTube

This has traditionally been the music used for snow closings on WHAS 11 in Louisville since the 1978 snowstorm

[sgpnow-us]

Tips For Property Owners To Prepare For Winter

Winter is coming, whether we like it or not. Moreover, for property owners, this means one thing: snow. Lots and lots of snow. In order to prepare for the winter season and ensure your property remains operational during the coldest months, follow these tips. Taking these simple precautions allows you to keep your property safe and sound while keeping your tenants happy (hopefully, without any significant accidents).

Get Your Storm Shelters Ready

Property owners in the United States should be ready for winter storms by following these tips:

-Check your roof. Ensure there are no loose or damaged tiles and that all chimneys, skylights, and vents are closed and covered. Check for any sign of water infiltration – wet spots on the ceiling, around windows and doors, or behind walls. If you notice any of these problems, contact a professional to fix them before a storm hits.

-Make sure your gutters are clear. Gutter clean-up is essential before a storm because rain can quickly turn into snow on high-elevation roofs. Snow can also slide down gutters and into yards, blocking streets and creating dangerous conditions. Clear gutters before a storm hit to avoid costly damage.

-Raise your property’s minimum foundation height by at least four inches. This will help protect it from high winds and potential flooding during winter storms. You may also need to install stronger siding or roofing materials if your home was built before 1978.

-Install outdoor weatherproofing measures such as tarps or windscreens on windows and doors if you frequently live in an area that experiences severe weather conditions. These measures can keep your home warm during cold winter months while protecting it from damage caused by wind, snow, rain, and ice accumulation

Prepare Your Property For Winter Weather

Preparing your property for winter weather can make the transition go more smoothly. Here are some tips to help:

1) Clear snow and ice from your walks and driveways. This will keep them clear for vehicles and pedestrians, improving safety in an emergency.

2) Keep gutters clear of snow and ice buildup. This will help prevent water from flooding your home in a storm.

3) Secure all outdoor furniture and decorations. In high winds, objects can be lifted and carried away, potentially damaging your home or possessions. Make sure everything is securely fastened down before the first big snowstorm hits!

4) Check your home’s electrical systems and ensure they are appropriately insulated against temperature extremes. A poorly insulated home can result in costly repairs or even a complete loss of power during a power outage.

Make Sure All Your Equipment is in Good Condition

Preparing your property winterization can make a big difference in keeping you and your family safe. Here are five tips to help:

1. Check Your Heating System

Before the cold weather sets in, ensure your heating system is in good condition. If there are any issues with the system, have them fixed as soon as possible, so you're not dealing with an uncomfortable home in the freezing temperatures.

2. Clean Up Around Your Home

Make sure to clean up all the snow and ice that accumulates around your home. This will help keep your property clean and free of dangerous ice dams, which can lead to flooding if they break.

3. Make Sure All Your Windows Are Closed And Secure

Windows are a significant source of heat loss in cold climates, so ensure they're closed and secure during the colder months to keep out cold air and snow accumulation. And if you do have to open a window for any reason, be sure to close it quickly so you don't let wind or weather inside. 

Keep Your House Clean and Heated

If you are like many homeowners, you may be wondering how to prepare your property for winter. One crucial step is to keep your house clean and heated. Here are some tips:

1. Keep Your House Clean

One of the most important things you can do to prepare your home for winter is to keep it clean. This includes cleaning window screens and gutters, dusting furniture, and cleaning all surfaces that collect dirt and dust. Keeping your home clean will help prevent costly repairs in the future.

2. Heating Your Home

Heating your home is another essential way to protect it from the cold weather outside. Heating pads and electric blankets can be used in addition to traditional heating methods such as fireplaces and radiators. Make sure to adjust temperatures based on the outside temperature so that your home remains comfortable throughout the day and night.

3. Preparing For Emergencies

A plan for emergencies is essential during any season, especially during winter, when conditions can change rapidly. Make sure you have an emergency blanket, enough food and water supplies, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, a shovel, a snow shovel, an ice scraper, sandals or boots if necessary, and a phone charger in case of power outages.

Conclusion

When it comes to winter, property owners should be prepared for everything. From ensuring that all the water pipes are insulated and appropriately fixed so that they don’t freeze to making sure the roofs are in good condition and protected from snow loads, there is a lot that needs to be done in order to keep everyone safe and comfortable during this time of year. Property owners can take some simple steps in advance to ensure they have a great winter experience, no matter what happens.

[dprs99]

Getting Ready for Christmas

A huge snowstorm! It’s a snowpocalypse! There hasn’t been a storm like this since the big one in 1978, or 1967, or 1919! The heavens may run completely out of moisture! Snow plows will be of no use! Snow blowers? Don’t make me laugh. Salt? Pllleease! We may not be able to get out until May! The kids will probably never go back to school. Not this year. I’m out of breath just typing this! I…

[mitchipedia]

Time Square, New York during a snowstorm (1978)

[deanobanion]

Surreal Snow Scenes from the Blizzard of 1978

[thegikitiki]

Climate Change...

   Snowstorm in Times Square, New York City, 1978

[aethelredism]

snow day

Hawkins didn’t really get snow days—like much of the Midwest, they were well stocked on salt, and the region got enough snow that everyone knew how to handle it.

But in January 1978, the worst snowstorm anyone in Hawkins had ever seen snowed everyone into their homes. Even those who could normally shovel their way out didn’t because the windchill was forty below zero. The TVs and radios begged people to take every precaution and not leave the house unless absolutely necessary.

“Does this mean we don’t have school?” Will asked from where he was snuggled up in front of the fire.

Joyce couldn’t help laughing. “You definitely don’t have school. And I don’t have work.”

Will’s eyes widened. “Really?”

“Really.” She wrapped her arms around him, nuzzling her nose in his hair. “We get to spend the whole day together.”

“How long will it last?” Jonathan asked. He’d always been quiet, to the point of sometimes refusing to communicate verbally, but the more time he spent away from Lonnie, the more he was coming out of his shell.

“I don’t know, sweetie. Probably a couple days.”

“Can we go outside?” Will asked.

“I don’t think that’s a good idea. Maybe later. Right now, let’s make some pancakes.”

Will and Jonathan shouted in excitement. Joyce laughed, getting up and padding to the kitchen.

Life had been harder since she kicked Lonnie to the curb, but in many ways, it had been easier, too. It was quieter around the house now, and even though Joyce was struggling to make ends meet, at least she only had to take care of two children now instead of three. And it had been nice, really, just her and her boys. It was like they’d been holding their breaths for so long, and now they were finally able to breathe. She used to dread being stuck in this house, had felt so trapped after she had Jonathan, but for the first time since moving here, she was looking forward to spending the whole day inside.

The three of them spent all morning in the living room, parked in front of the TV and eating pancakes in their pajamas.

“Do we have to put on clothes?” Will asked when it got close to noon.

Joyce shook her head, smiling. “Nope. You can stay in your pajamas as long as you like.”

Will grinned and settled against her. Joyce wrapped one arm around him and one around Jonathan. “What should we do for lunch?”

“If we’re in our pajamas, we should only eat breakfast,” Will said with all the logic of a six-year-old.

“That’s very wise,” she said, nodding in agreement. “Bacon and eggs?”

“Yeah!” Will said.

“Can we have more pancakes?” Jonathan asked.

Joyce considered. “Let’s have both.”

Will threw off his blanket, running around in his racecar print pajamas. “I hope it snows forever!”

A foolish, selfish little part of Joyce hoped so too.