Staying Safe While Traveling in the Snow: Snowstorm Survival Tips

Traveling in snowy conditions can be breathtakingly beautiful, but it also comes with its fair share of risks. Snowstorms—while mesmerizing to watch from a cozy ski lodge—can quickly turn dangerous if you’re out on the road or exploring winter landscapes.

Being prepared isn’t just wise; it could save your life. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about staying safe if you’re caught in a snowstorm, from understanding the phenomenon itself to taking the right precautions before and during your trip.

Understanding Snowstorms

Before we dive into preparation and survival tips, it’s important to understand what snowstorms are and the threats they pose. A snowstorm is characterized by heavy snowfall, strong winds, and often dangerously low temperatures. Snowstorms vary in intensity, with some causing a gentle snowfall and others creating blizzard-like conditions with zero visibility, freezing temperatures, and treacherous roads.

Snowstorms form when cold air moves into a region that has sufficient moisture. Warm air rises and cools, allowing water droplets to freeze into snowflakes. When this happens on a large scale, with specific atmospheric pressure changes, the result can be anything from a light snow shower to a fierce snowstorm.

Blizzards and snow squalls are common types of snowstorms. Blizzards are prolonged with high-intensity winds and little visibility, often shutting down entire cities. On the other hand, snow squalls are shorter bursts of intense snowfall and wind but can catch travelers off guard due to how quickly they develop.

Pre-Trip Preparations

When traveling in snow-prone areas, preparation is your first line of defense. Start by checking the weather forecast for your route and destination. Reliable weather apps and services like the National Weather Service or AccuWeather provide alerts for severe conditions. Avoid embarking on your road trip if there’s a warning for heavy snow or strong winds.

Packing is another critical step. Winter travel requires more than just clothes. Include thermal layers, waterproof outerwear, and insulated footwear. Add necessities like food, water, a flashlight with spare batteries, and a fully charged power bank for your phone. You’ll also need a first aid kit, blankets, and tools like an ice scraper and shovel.

Your vehicle needs attention as well. Ensure your car is in top shape by checking tires, brakes, and windshield wipers. Consider snow tires or chains for better traction on icy roads. Top off your windshield washer fluid with a winter-grade solution that can handle freezing temperatures. Finally, keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent freezing and ensure you have enough fuel in case of an emergency.

What to Do When Caught in a Snowstorm

Even with the best planning, snowstorms can take you by surprise. If you find yourself caught in one, your first priority should be finding shelter. Safe shelter could mean pulling into a rest area, a nearby hotel, or even a sheltered parking lot where you can wait out the storm.

If you don’t have immediate access to shelter, and you’re on foot, building a snow shelter, such as a windbreak or snow cave, could be a lifesaver. These structures trap heat and provide protection from harsh winds.

Staying warm is critical. If you’re in your vehicle, run the engine sparingly to conserve fuel and prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Ensure that the exhaust pipe is clear of snow to avoid fumes backing up into your car. Use blankets from your emergency kit or layers of clothing to maintain body heat.

Snowstorm Survival Gear

Having the right gear can make all the difference in a snowstorm emergency. An emergency kit tailored to winter travel is essential. It should include basics like high-energy snacks, bottled water (insulated or stored somewhere it won’t freeze), and a portable phone charger.

Specialized winter gear is also crucial. Hand warmers, thermal blankets, and waterproof matches or lighters are small yet effective tools for staying warm and starting a fire if needed. A battery-operated radio can help you stay updated on weather developments when cellular service is unavailable.

Knowing how to use your gear is almost as important as having it. For example, a shovel can be used to clear snow blocking your tires, while sand or kitty litter can provide added traction if your car gets stuck on ice.

Safety Tips for Traveling in Snow

Driving in snow requires extra vigilance. Reduce speed to give yourself more time to react to icy patches or sudden turns. Avoid sudden braking or accelerating, as this can lead to skidding. If your vehicle does start to slide, steer gently in the direction of the skid to regain control.

If your car gets stuck, don’t spin your wheels excessively—it will only dig the car deeper into the snow. Instead, try gently rocking the vehicle back and forth. If this doesn’t work, use the sand or kitty litter from your emergency kit to gain traction under the tires.

Communication is another critical factor during winter emergencies. Always inform someone of your travel plans, including your route and estimated arrival time, especially if you’re traveling alone or in remote areas. If stranded, use your phone or radio to call for help and provide your coordinates to rescuers. Make sure your hazard lights are on to increase visibility for passersby.

Explore Winter Landscapes Safely

Snow-covered landscapes can be magical and awe-inspiring, but they demand respect and caution. Being well-prepared for your trip, understanding snowstorm dynamics, and knowing how to respond if caught in extreme conditions can make a significant difference in your safety. By practicing these precautions, you’re not just planning for the worst—you’re empowering yourself to make the most of what winter travel has to offer.

If you found this guide helpful, share it with your fellow winter travelers. Together, we can create a community that prioritizes safety while enjoying the beauty of winter.

image credit: envato.com