CNN's Jacqui Jeras on the bone-chilling weather in the U.S.

Jacqui Jeras

CNN Meteorologist Jacqui Jeras has been tracking several storm systems hitting the United States. She took a few minutes to talk with CNN.com.

Q: How unusual is it for so much of the nation to be hit by bad weather?

JERAS: What's going on today is that we have two different storm systems and they're merging into one big, powerful low-pressure cell. That's not so unusual. What is unusual is that we are seeing winter conditions and springlike conditions at the same time in different parts of the U.S. In the Southeast we have storms that could turn severe with possible tornadoes, while in the Upper Midwest, we have near-blizzard conditions with very cold temperatures and high winds.

Q: How can people in the storm zones prepare themselves for the bad weather?

JERAS: The best thing to do is stay home. Travel is not going to be good and wind chill temperatures will be dangerously low -- so cold that exposed skin will freeze and hypothermia could develop in a short period of time. Cover every inch of yourself with clothing. It's too cold to be cute.

Q: What should people do if they're stranded in their car in a deserted area in the near-blizzard zone?

JERAS: The best thing to do is to prepare. Compile a winter weather kit, including a blanket, heavy matches and an aluminum can to melt snow to be used for drinking water. Also include a high-calorie food item to keep you going, a shovel and a bag of sand or cat litter to help get you out of a slick situation. You shouldn't leave your car and you should have a cell phone with you, if possible, to call for help. Don't leave your car running because you risk carbon monoxide poisoning if exhaust leaks inside. Wait for help to find you. A highway patrol officer should arrive eventually.

Q: What is your forecast for the storm system currently moving through the Northwest?

JERAS: It's bringing rain to the Cascade and Olympic mountains. Officials have posted high wind warnings because of gusts up to 70 mph. The storm isn't bringing heavy snowfall, but it is a wind machine that will move through the Rocky Mountains and the Upper Midwest, with bitter Arctic-cold temperatures. Folks in the Upper Midwest should expect to get a one-two punch in the coming days, the second punch coming from the Northwest.

Much of U.S. braces for more harsh weather
December 16, 2000
Wintry blast hits Northeast U.S., disrupts travel
December 14, 2000
Ice storm coats parts of Southern U.S.
December 13, 2000
Wintry weather from Texas to Northeast; Midwest digs out
December 12, 2000
Chicago braces for blizzard; storm hits Midwest
December 11, 2000

National Weather Service
UM Weather (University of Michigan)

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