Bedford Police Warn of 'Heavy, Wet Snow'

The Bedford Police Department, last night, released the following advisory regarding today's winter storm:

BPD would like to advise residents of a winter weather advisory that is in effect from 1 am Wednesday to 10 am Thursday. 

Heavy, wet snow is expected to develop southwest to northeast across NH after 2:00 a.m., gradually increasing throughout the morning hours on Wednesday. The peak snow period should be from mid-day Wednesday through the evening, gradually winding down after midnight. 

The heaviest snow amounts of 5-10 inches are expected to fall in areas south of the Lakes Region. North of the Lakes Region, between 2-6 inches of snow are likely. Higher amounts of snow, between 10-12 inches, could fall across east-facing slopes. Between 2-6 inches of snow are expected along I-95 at the Seacoast if rain mixes with snow. 

Winds gusts of 25-35 mph are expected along the coast on Wednesday, with isolated gusts of 35-40 mph expected during afternoon hours. Winds will be below hazard levels elsewhere. 

Be Prepared Before a Winter Storm Occurs: • Check your fire extinguishers, smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to assure they are in good working order. • Keep pipes from freezing. • Keep building temperatures consistent —above 55 degrees Fahrenheit. • Insulate pipes. Use “pipe-sleeves” or other insulating material. • Open closets and cabinet doors to circulate warm air where pipes are located. • As an emergency measure, let faucets drip slowly to avoid freezing (not recommended as a permanent measure). • Make sure you have ready access to emergency equipment such as flashlights, first aid kits and a working battery powered radio. •Keep vehicles winterized. Carry a survivor kit in your car to include the following: cell phone or radio, blankets, flashlight, sand or cat litter, shovel, windshield scraper, tool kit, tow rope, jumper cables. • Develop an emergency communication plan. A backup generator is always useful in an emergency situation. Test the generator monthly to determine reliability. Install generator outdoors away from doors and windows. Electrical connections should be performed by a licensed electrician —the use of a transfer switch is a must. 

During and After a Winter Storm: • Listen to the current weather reports and emergency information. • Dress for conditions. Layers of protective clothing are warmer than thick clothing. • Mittens are warmer than gloves. Wear head gear. • Before shoveling, warm up first, then stretch, and do not overexert yourself if you are unaccustomed to it —cold weather puts an extra strain on the heart and can bring on a heart attack, a major cause of death during and after winter storms. • Take winter driving seriously; travel only if absolutely necessary. • Watch for signs of frostbite or hypothermia. If symptoms are detected, seek medical attention. Check on your neighbors especially senior citizens.