PrepWinter storm checklist
What to do to your home, what to have for days without power, and what to keep in the car. Scale it to your household, check things off and print the list. Nothing leaves this browser.
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Your winter storm checklist
Water is per person: a gallon a day for 3 days, the CDC's minimum.
Check it again once a year.
Prepare your home
Supplies for several days without power
In the car
From the CDC's winter car list. Keep your gas tank full.
From preppantry.app. Checked 2 November 2026. Independent tool, not official advice.
How it works
This list joins Ready.gov's winter weather page with the CDC's page on preparing for a winter storm, including its car kit. Water is a gallon per person per day for 3 days, the CDC's minimum.
A Winter Storm Watch is issued 12 to 48 hours ahead, and a Winter Storm Warning 12 to 24 hours ahead, Ready.gov says. Sign up for your community's warning system and consider a NOAA Weather Radio.
If you're under a Winter Storm Warning, find shelter right away. Stay off the roads if you can. If you're trapped in your car, stay inside it.
Know the signs. Hypothermia: shivering, exhaustion, confusion and drowsiness. Below 95°F is an emergency. Frostbite: numbness, white or grayish-yellow skin, and firm or waxy skin. If you can't afford heating, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program may help.
Common questions
How do I prepare for a winter storm?
Ready.gov says to add insulation, learn how to keep pipes from freezing, test smoke alarms and CO detectors, and plan for several days without power, including medications, pet needs and extra batteries.
What should I keep in my car in winter?
The CDC lists a phone charger, warm clothes, a scraper, a shovel, a radio, a flashlight, water and snacks, a first aid kit, tow chains, tire chains, cat litter or sand, jumper cables, reflectors and road maps.
What is the difference between a winter storm watch and a warning?
Ready.gov says a watch is issued 12 to 48 hours ahead, and a warning 12 to 24 hours ahead. Under a warning, find shelter right away.
Can I heat my home with the oven in an outage?
No. Ready.gov says never to heat your home with a gas stovetop or oven. Use generators and grills only outdoors.
What should I do if I'm stuck in my car in a storm?
Ready.gov says to stay inside your car. Dress in layers, and watch for frostbite and hypothermia.
Sources
- Ready.gov: winter weather (updated March 10, 2026)
- CDC: preparing for a winter storm
- CDC: creating an emergency water supply
Checked on 2 November 2026. This is an independent tool and not official advice. See sources and method.