Blizzards and Snow Storm Preparation

Iowans are not strangers to blizzards and snowstorms in the winter, but how can we stay safe during those events? Students will be learning how to prepare and stay safe during severe winter weather.

Driving Question

• How can we prepare for blizzards and snowstorms?

Probing Questions

• The photo was taken after an ice storm. What do you notice in the photo?
• What do you think is the difference between regular weather and severe weather?
• How might you prepare for severe weather at home and school?
• What are things you could do to stay safe during a blizzard or snowstorm?

Classroom Suggestions

Students could:

• Create a list of what happens before, during and after a blizzard. Students can draw pictures of what it might look like outside.
• Discuss how we prepare for severe weather at school (ex. tornado drills, blizzards) and talk about the importance of a plan.
• Have a staff member at your school explain how they get the school, playground, and parking lot ready for a blizzard or snowstorm.
• Have a meteorologist visit and discuss how they help people prepare and what students should know to be ready in case of a weather emergency like a blizzard.
• Create a blizzard plan or kit for at home. Have students brainstorm different things they would need in a kit and different jobs family members might need to do before, during or after a snowstorm.

Relevant Related Resources

Introduction to Weather | Generation Genius: Video and lesson materials to build background knowledge.
How Can You Get Ready for a Storm? | Mystery Science: A kindergarten level activity to help kids think about how to know how to get ready for a storm.