Winter Weather

Winter Weather

The January freeze is here, and for much of the country, the coldest days of winter are upon us. With a major winter storm threatening millions across the Plains, Northeast and into the South this weekend, now is the time to ensure that you – and our Donegal policyholders – are prepared and protected. 

While weather models are showing differing scenarios for the severity and trajectory of Winter Storm Fern, one thing is clear: With extreme temperatures, ice and heavy snowfall comes the risk of costly damage and disruption – to yourself, your employees and your customers.

Here, we share the most common risks to watch out for when severe winter weather hits, and the steps you can take now to stay safe and mitigate future loss. Read on for these tips, and an important reminder on how you can effectively report claims to our Donegal team for prompt service!

7 Risks of Extreme Cold

1. Ice-related Power Outages – Ice buildup adds weight to power lines and trees, causing them to sag, break or fall. This can disrupt the electrical grid through snapped lines and toppled poles.
2. Frozen & Burst Pipes – When water lines freeze, they expand and rupture, leading to significant water intrusion and interior damage. Frozen pipe water leakage volume can be substantial, with a single burst pipe potentially releasing hundreds of gallons of water per day or even per minute, leading to significant property damage.
3. Roof Stress & Ice Damming – Ice buildup at the roof edge forces water under roofing materials, resulting in leaks, insulation saturation, and long-term structural concerns. Additionally, heavy ice and snow can overload roofing systems, creating a risk of structural failure (especially for flat and older roofs!).
4. HVAC Strain or Failure – Systems run continuously in extreme cold, increasing the risk of mechanical breakdown and leaving buildings vulnerable to freezing conditions inside.
5. Sprinkler System Freeze-Ups – Frozen fire suppression lines not only damage equipment, but can compromise building safety, increasing the risk of severe damage to the building and contents.
6. Wind-Driven Ice Damage – Strong winter winds can push ice against signage, facades, gutters, and exterior surfaces, leading to immediate or hidden damage.
7. Wood and Pellet Stove Fires – Extreme cold can rapidly cool stove exhaust, which increases creosote buildup and reduces draft, raising the risk of chimney fires and smoke backdrafting into the home; it can also freeze or restrict air intakes and vents, causing poor combustion, shutdowns, or dangerous exhaust blockages.

 If the Power Goes Out

• Avoid using candles – Candles can increase your fire risk. Instead, be prepared and have battery-operated flashlights on hand.
• Keep warm air in – Use your doors as infrequently as possible, and close off rooms that you are not using. Avoid opening your refrigerator and freezer as much as possible.
• Unplug sensitive home electronics – Turn off ovens and space heaters that may have been on when the outage occurred.
• Never use ovens or ranges to heat your home! – Doing so could increase your risk of not only fire, but also carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Stay away from downed wires – Always assume that fallen power lines are live and carry electricity. Report downed wires promptly by calling your electric provider.
• Keep generators far from buildings – Avoid operating them in confined spaces, such as garages.