Well, we have been out for a few hours now and road conditions are worsening as time goes by as expected. Snowfall accumulation continues and is expected to continue into at least the evening hours, however the biggest concern is blowing and drifting snow. 281 from Hastings up through Grand Island is treacherous but open, Highway 11 from 80 to Hiway 2 is beginning to drift over faster than plows can keep up. Highway 2 from Cairo to Highway 10 is slow-going with limited visibility and Highway 10 from Hazard to Kearney is already experiencing drifting due to winds, especially in the open areas. That is all the ground we have been able to cover in the eastern KRVN listening area so far but we intend on staying out through the evening hours to keep you updated.
With windchills dropping to 30 degrees below zero, it is imperative that you stay home unless you ABSOLUTELY have to go out. Conditions are favorable for vehicle accidents, rollovers, breakdowns and going in the ditch is highly probable. With high winds that could easily drift snow over your vehicle in a matter of 15 minutes and wind chills this dangerous, survival can become a real issue very quickly. If you HAVE to go out, scroll down and read through our Winter Weather Lessons and make sure you have the proper equipment and supplies in your vehicle. Allow enough time to get to your destination and do not deviate from your regular route. Let SOMEONE know where you are going and what routes you are taking. Call someone when you have arrived and make sure you drive slowly and safely. We have just experienced visibility at less than 1/2 mile on this morning's run and IT WILL GET WORSE.
So what could happen?
If you have been reading your KRVN Winter Weather Lessons below, you know we discussed Hypothermia.
Hypothermia can set in between 15 minutes to 12 hours depending on how low the outside temperature has become. Temperatures like what we will experience after the supper hour tonight can cause hypothermia the fastest.
An adult body is capable of survival from 45 minutes to 3 days after hypothermia sets in, through the 3 stages of hypothermia.
Hypothermia occurs when body temperature falls below its normal level which is 98 degree F or cooler. The first stage of hypothermia is constricting of skin and blood vessels, increase in blood pressure and heart beat.
The 2nd stage will lead to a drop of body temperature by several degrees. Shivering is violent, the victim will begin to stumble and experience mild confusion. Add in the limited visibility and nighttime conditions and you can see how very fast you can be in trouble leaving your vehicle!
In the third stage, the body temp will drop drastically, to about 90 degrees which begins the process of your body's systems shutting down. After this, death occurs.
Now, add in being wet, scared and even more than 2 miles from the nearest house or building...folks, whatever you have to do today and tonight, make sure you ask yourself if its worth it.
Stay safe. Gotta go. Update ya later.
