Kansas City Prepares for Severe Cold and Snow

News Summary

Kansas City is gearing up for an extreme cold snap and potential historic snowfall this weekend, with forecasts predicting 4 to 13 inches of snow. A winter storm watch is in effect, urging residents to prepare due to plummeting temperatures with lows reaching -4°F. Homeowners should take precautions to protect plumbing from freezing, including pipe insulation and consistent thermostat settings. Experts advise keeping water flowing and checking for drafts to safeguard against damage during this frigid weather.

Kansas City Gears Up for Extreme Cold and Record Snowfall!

Brace yourselves, Kansas City! We’re in for a wild ride as plummeting temperatures and the possibility of historic snowfall hit the area this weekend. With the potential for snowfall between 4 to 13 inches and even more north of Interstate 70, everyone needs to stay alert and prepared. Weather heroes at the National Weather Service have issued a winter storm watch from Saturday evening all the way through Sunday.

What’s Coming Our Way?

Hold onto your hats, folks! Monday and Tuesday could have us shivering with highs barely scraping 15°F and lows plummeting to a bone-chilling -4°F. Yes, you read that right—negative temperatures are on the horizon! These harsh conditions bring the *real* risk of pipes freezing, especially if they dip below the freezing mark of 32°F. If temperatures stay below 20°F for more than six hours, those pesky frozen pipes can become a real headache!

Pipe Problems? Not on My Watch!

Let’s face it: no one wants to deal with a burst pipe. So, what can you do to safeguard your plumbing? First things first, keep an eye on any pipes lurking in those cold, drafty spots like exterior walls, attics, basements, and crawlspaces. You’ll want to pamper those pipes by insulation—think pipe sleeves or electric heat tape to cozy them up.

Another tip is to open up your kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors. This simple act allows warm air from your home to mingle with those vulnerable pipes. And hey, don’t forget to let your faucets drip slowly! This keeps water moving and lessens the chances of it freezing solid.

Keep It Consistent

When it comes to thermostats, consistency is key. Aim to keep that baby at a steady temperature day and night, never below 55°F—especially when you aren’t at home. Sure, this might add a few bucks to your heating bill, but trust us, it’s a lot cheaper than the cost of repairing burst pipes!

What to Use and What to Avoid

Did you know that certain types of pipes are more susceptible to cold than others? CPVC and copper are notorious for freezing in extreme temperatures, while galvanized and PEX pipes hold up a little better. Be proactive! If you suspect a pipe might be frozen, gently warm it up using a space heater or even a hairdryer to get it back in action.

Calling In the Experts

Service calls for frozen pipes are on the rise, and local plumbing services are bracing for an influx of calls. Experts recommend keeping at least one faucet trickling to prevent freezing, especially if frigid conditions linger. And if the unthinkable happens and you find you have frozen pipes, turn off your home’s water supply to minimize damage.

A Little Extra Protection

It’s also a wise idea to shut off water supplies for any sinks that don’t see heavy use during these chilly days. While you’re at it, check for drafts in your home. Sealing any leaks in doors and windows can help keep the warm air in and the cold air out, making a world of difference when temperatures drop.

Stay Safe, Kansas City!

As Kansas City braces for this wintry onslaught, let’s band together and prepare accordingly. Take care of your pipes, keep your pets safe, and drive carefully on slick roads. The cold can be daunting, but with a little preparation, we can weather this storm together. Stay warm, everyone!