Winter storms are sweeping across the US, bringing snow emergencies in the Northeast and flooding in the Pacific Northwest. Stay safe with driving tips, shelter resources, and pet care guidance, plus direct links to emergency services.
Use official sources for live alerts and road conditions. Follow your local authorities' advice and guidance immediately by staying off roads or evacuating.
Current situation across the United States
Severe winter weather is affecting multiple regions across the country. In the Northeast, heavy snow and ice are creating hazardous travel conditions, while the Pacific Northwest is dealing with widespread flooding, evacuations, saturated ground, and powerful winds. Staying prepared, remaining aware of conditions, and knowing where to find shelter are essential for keeping both people and pets safe.
Driving and road safety
- Check road conditions: Review state 511 sites or DOT maps before traveling. National 511 directory
- Avoid non-essential travel: Delay trips during active warnings or advisories.
- If you must drive:
- Fuel and power: Keep the tank at least half full; carry a charger and power bank.
- Emergency kit: Blankets, warm clothing, food, water, flashlight, first-aid, traction aids.
- Speed and spacing: Slow down; increase following distance on snow and ice.
- Flooded roads: Turn around, moving water and hidden damage make crossings deadly.
Shelter and housing resources
- Red Cross Shelter Finder: Find open shelters
- FEMA Disaster Assistance: Emergency shelter information
- HUD Find Shelter: Locate shelters, food banks, and services
- Local warming centers: Check city/county emergency management, libraries, and community centers for locations and hours.
- Pet policies: Call ahead, some shelters coordinate with animal services or provide pet areas.
Caring for pets during winter storms
- Bring pets indoors: Cold, wind, and flooding are life-threatening.
- Prepared kit: Food, water, meds, carrier, leash, waste bags, and blankets.
- ID and records: Keep tags/microchip info and vaccination records handy.
- Evacuation safety: Leash or crate pets; never leave them behind.
Regional spotlights
Northeast snow emergencies
- Road conditions:
- Weather alerts: NWS Eastern Region and local NWS offices for watches, warnings, and snowfall forecasts.
- Snowfall tracking: WeatherUSA Winter Center
- City/county updates: Check local emergency management pages for parking bans, plow routes, and warming centers.
Pacific Northwest flooding
- Road conditions:
- Weather alerts:
- Flood safety: Monitor river forecasts and heed evacuation guidance from county emergency management.
- Community updates: Check county pages (e.g., Snohomish, Skagit, Clark, Multnomah) for sandbag sites, closures, and shelters.
Helpful resources
- National Weather Service: weather.gov and Ready.gov winter weather
- 511 road condition services: National directory
- American Red Cross Shelter Finder: Find shelters near you
- FEMA Disaster Assistance: Emergency shelter info
- HUD Find Shelter: Shelter and services locator
Key takeaways
- Stay informed: Use official alerts and local guidance.
- Limit travel: Choose safety over speed; avoid flooded and icy routes.
- Plan for shelter: Know nearby options for people and pets.
- Prep smart: Build emergency kits and keep batteries charged.
- Support neighbors: Check in on vulnerable community members.
