Farmers, October Storm Surprise: Get Ready for Wild Winter

November 1, 2011

The Farmers’ Almanac is expecting some “clime and punishment” this winter, much like the October surprise snow storm that’s knocked out power to 3 million homes. Here’s how to prepare for the next big weather hit.

Last week’s surprise snowstorm, which left 3 million people without power from Maryland through Maine, is just the beginning of what the Farmers’ Almanac is predicting to be an unusually cold and stormy winter.

That could mean many days without power. So if you haven’t already bought a portable generator, now’s the time to purchase one at your local home center. And if you own a generator, gas it up, because you never know when the next snow dump will knock out electricity.

Also, investigate whether a whole house generator is right for your home. They can be pricey — on average $14,700 — but going a week or more without electricity costs you, too.

Finally, don’t forget to make a home emergency preparedness kit with everything from water and food to flashlights and cash.

Did you lose power in the weekend storm? How did you get by?