How to Survive a Pittsburgh Blizzard: A College Student's Guide

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Jan 1

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Summary

Blizzards in Pittsburgh can be severe, impacting transportation, power, and daily life.
Prepare for blizzards by stocking up on essentials, staying informed about weather forecasts, and having an emergency plan.
During a blizzard, prioritize safety, limit travel, and stay connected with others. If you're stuck on campus or off-campus, there are resources and strategies to manage the situation.

Pittsburgh, a city known for its vibrant culture, diverse neighborhoods, and iconic bridges, also boasts a reputation for experiencing its fair share of winter weather, including the infamous blizzard. As a college student in Pittsburgh, navigating the city during a blizzard can be a unique challenge, but with proper preparation and a bit of know-how, you can turn a potential inconvenience into a manageable situation.

Prepare for the Blizzard: Be Ready Before the Snow Falls

Stock Up on Essentials

Before the blizzard hits, ensure you have a well-stocked pantry and a basic emergency kit. Here's what to include:

Non-perishable food: Canned goods, pasta, rice, peanut butter, crackers, granola bars, dried fruit, and other shelf-stable items.
Water: A minimum of one gallon of water per person per day, stored in sealed containers.
First aid kit: Bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and other essential medical supplies.
Flashlight and batteries: Power outages are common during blizzards, so having a reliable light source is crucial.
Warm clothing: Layers of warm clothing, including hats, gloves, scarves, and waterproof outerwear, are essential for staying warm in frigid temperatures.
Blankets: Warm blankets or sleeping bags can provide extra insulation and comfort.
Hand and foot warmers: Disposable hand and foot warmers can provide temporary relief from cold.
Candles and matches: If your power goes out, candles can provide a source of light and warmth (use with caution).
Phone charger and power bank: Keep your phone charged and have a portable power bank in case of power outages.
Cash: ATMs and credit card machines may be unavailable during a blizzard, so it's wise to have some cash on hand.
Snow shovel and ice scraper: These are helpful for clearing walkways and vehicles.
Salt or sand: Spread salt or sand on icy surfaces to improve traction.

Stay Informed and Monitor Weather Forecasts

Staying informed about the approaching blizzard is essential. Keep track of weather reports, advisories, and warnings from reliable sources like the National Weather Service, local news stations, and university alerts.

National Weather Service: The National Weather Service provides accurate and up-to-date weather forecasts, including blizzard warnings.
Local news stations: Local news channels provide live updates and coverage of severe weather events.
University alerts: Your university will send out alerts and notifications about potential weather-related closures, cancellations, or safety advisories.

Develop an Emergency Plan

It's essential to have a plan in place in case of a blizzard. This plan should outline what you will do if you need to evacuate your home or dorm, where you will go, and who you will contact in case of an emergency.

Identify a safe place: If your home or dorm is unsafe during the blizzard, identify a safe place to stay, such as a friend's house or a designated shelter.
Communicate with family and friends: Inform your family and friends about your plans and let them know how to reach you in case of an emergency.
Charge your devices: Ensure your phone, laptop, and other devices are fully charged before the blizzard hits.
Prepare for power outages: Have a plan for dealing with potential power outages, such as using candles or flashlights for light and keeping your food cold.

Navigating the Blizzard: Staying Safe During the Storm

Prioritize Safety: Avoid Unnecessary Travel

During a blizzard, prioritize safety above all else. If possible, avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary. Blizzard conditions can make roads impassable and increase the risk of accidents. If you must travel, follow these safety precautions:

Check road conditions: Before you leave, check road conditions and weather updates from the National Weather Service or your state's Department of Transportation.
Inform someone of your travel plans: Let someone know your destination, route, and estimated time of arrival.
Drive slowly and cautiously: Reduce your speed, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and use your headlights.
Be prepared for delays: Plan for unexpected delays due to road closures, traffic congestion, or vehicle issues.
Avoid driving if you feel unsafe: If visibility is poor or the roads are treacherous, it's best to postpone your trip until conditions improve.

Stay Connected and Informed

Stay connected with others and stay informed about the blizzard situation.

Charge your devices: Keep your phone, laptop, and other devices charged.
Follow official sources: Stay updated on weather forecasts, road closures, and emergency advisories from reliable sources.
Check in with family and friends: Let your loved ones know you're safe and update them on your situation.
Use social media cautiously: Social media can be a useful tool for sharing information and connecting with others, but be cautious about relying solely on unverified sources.

Staying Safe On-Campus During a Blizzard

Campus Closures and Advisories

During a blizzard, your university will likely announce closures and advisories for the safety of students, faculty, and staff. Pay close attention to these announcements and follow their instructions.

Check the university website: Visit your university's website for official announcements, closures, and safety guidelines.
Subscribe to university alerts: Sign up for text or email alerts to receive timely updates.
Check student emails: The university will often send out emails with important information.

Campus Resources

Your university may offer resources to help you navigate the blizzard. These resources may include:

On-campus housing: If you're in a residence hall or on-campus housing, the staff will provide guidance and support during the blizzard.
Dining services: Some dining halls may remain open during a blizzard, providing meals for students.
Transportation: Your university may offer shuttle services or other transportation options to help students get around campus.
Health services: If you have any health concerns or require medical assistance, contact your university's health services.
Student affairs: The student affairs office may provide assistance with academic issues, housing concerns, or other student needs.

Stay Safe Inside

If you're stuck on campus during a blizzard, stay safe inside your dorm or residence hall.

Stay warm: Dress in layers of warm clothing and use blankets or sleeping bags for extra insulation.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Stay entertained: Find ways to stay entertained, such as reading, watching movies, or playing games.
Be mindful of fire safety: Use candles or other heating sources with caution to prevent fires.
Check in with others: Stay connected with your roommates, friends, or family members.

Staying Safe Off-Campus During a Blizzard

Off-Campus Housing Considerations

If you're living off-campus during a blizzard, take extra precautions to ensure your safety and well-being.

Communicate with your landlord: Let your landlord know about the blizzard and any potential issues you may face.
Prepare for power outages: Have a plan for dealing with power outages, such as using candles or flashlights for light and keeping your food cold.
Secure your home: Close and lock all windows and doors to prevent drafts and protect your property.
Check on your neighbors: Check on your elderly neighbors or those who may need assistance during the blizzard.

Transportation Options

During a blizzard, public transportation may be limited or unavailable. Consider these alternative transportation options:

Walk cautiously: If you must walk, dress warmly, wear sturdy shoes, and be aware of icy surfaces.
Use a ride-sharing service: Ride-sharing services may be available, but availability and pricing may vary during a blizzard.
Avoid driving if possible: If you can, avoid driving during a blizzard.

Community Resources

Local communities may offer resources to help residents during a blizzard. These resources may include:

Shelters: If your home is unsafe or you lose power, contact local shelters for assistance.
Community centers: Some community centers may open as warming centers to provide shelter and support.
Emergency services: Contact local emergency services if you have a medical emergency or need assistance.

Staying Warm and Entertained

While a blizzard may disrupt your daily routine, it can also be an opportunity to find new ways to stay warm and entertained. Here are some ideas:

Curl up with a good book: Spend some time reading your favorite books or discover new authors.
Watch movies or TV shows: Binge-watch your favorite movies or TV shows and enjoy some quality entertainment.
Play board games: Gather your roommates or friends for a board game night and have some laughs.
Cook a hearty meal: Take advantage of the time to cook a delicious and comforting meal.
Have a snowball fight: If you're feeling adventurous, head outside for a safe and fun snowball fight.

Tips for Managing a Blizzard

Here are some additional tips for managing a blizzard in Pittsburgh:

Be patient: Blizzards can cause disruptions to transportation, services, and daily life. Be patient and understanding as everyone adjusts to the new conditions.
Check on your neighbors: If you have elderly neighbors or those who may need assistance, check on them to ensure their safety.
Limit your time outdoors: Avoid prolonged exposure to cold temperatures and limit your time outdoors.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially if you're sweating from physical activity.
Keep your car fueled: If you need to drive, ensure your car is fueled up and your windshield wipers are working.
Dress warmly: Wear layers of warm clothing, including hats, gloves, scarves, and waterproof outerwear.
Use caution on icy surfaces: Walk slowly and use handrails for support when navigating icy surfaces.
Avoid strenuous activities: Limit your physical activity during a blizzard to avoid overexertion.

Embrace the Winter Wonder

While a blizzard can bring challenges, it can also offer a unique opportunity to embrace the winter wonder and appreciate the resilience of Pittsburgh. Take advantage of the snow-covered landscapes, enjoy the cozy atmosphere, and find ways to connect with your community. Pittsburgh's spirit shines through even in the harshest winter conditions.

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