Resilience Isn’t Measured in Inches

A Winter Reminder: Preparedness Is Built Before the Storm

Over the past few days, the Triangle experienced freezing rain, sleet, and snow, a mix that reminded many of us that winter weather risks aren’t just about how much snow falls.

Even when heavier snowfall doesn’t materialize, sleet and ice can create hazardous road conditions, disrupt travel, and linger well after precipitation stops. This moment offers an important opportunity for shared learning.

A few preparedness insights worth naming:

❄️ Risk isn’t measured by inches. A small amount of ice can be more dangerous than several inches of snow, especially on bridges, side streets, and sidewalks.

❄️ Forecasts evolve, impacts remain. Changing predictions don’t mean risk disappears. Communities benefit when residents understand why conditions shift and how to respond safely.

❄️ Preparedness is seasonal, not reactive. Winter events, like heat waves and floods, are part of a broader pattern of climate variability that requires year-round planning.

At Planning Ahead, we center community risk literacy through our From Crisis to Readiness work and our broader adaptation practice, helping translate complex risks into practical, community-informed action.

If you’re a local government, organization, or community partner considering how to strengthen preparedness, communication, or planning for the next season, we welcome conversation and collaboration.

Resilient communities aren’t built in the middle of a storm. They’re built before the next one arrives.