MAFB prepares for winter

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Magen M. Reeves
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  As summer comes to a close and temperatures begin to drop it’s time for Airmen of the 341st Missile Wing to prepare for the snow that is soon to fall.

In 2015, Malmstrom’s first snowfall occurred during the first weekend of October.

“It's been snowing in the high country and it won't be too much longer until we're seeing (snow) down here,” said Master Sgt. Thomas Moore, 341st MW safety superintendent.

This could mean that snow is heading our way very soon.

“We could have snow (now) we just haven’t yet,” said Master Sgt. Amber Tarver, 341st Operations Support Squadron weather flight chief. “We can expect to see more snow than last year and colder temperatures.”

According to the weather flight, last year’s weather was projected to follow El Nino, which meant creating a drier and warmer winter for the Montana area. This forecast came true when the 2015 winter was very mild in comparison to past seasons.

This winter, however, Montana is projected to experience a La Nina cycle which could mean a wetter and colder winter. This could be what is considered an average winter in Montana.

According to weather flight, the estimated snow fall for October is 2.8 inches, 6.1 inches in November and 7.4 inches in December, depending on how weather moves throughout the northern parts of the globe.

“Winter weather will most likely lead to limited visibility and increased road conditions,” said Tarver. “Wind chill and freezing or below freezing temperatures are also a concern.”

The 341st MW safety office recommended survival essential items individuals should gather to keep in their vehicles in the case of an emergency.

Items included gloves, non-perishable food, water, matches, a warm blanket and a shovel.

“Blizzard conditions are a potential concern throughout the winter months,” said Tarver. “Freezing precipitation, when rain freezes on contact with the surface, can also be a concern.”

Warnings will be issued when blizzards are detected or potential, according to weather flight. Blizzard conditions are defined as winds greater than 30 nautical miles and visibility is below one-fourth statute miles in snow lasting at least three hours.

Moore also said that individuals need to be cautious about idling their cars to warm them up before driving during the colder weather.

“This is both a security and a safety hazard,” said Moore.

Montana state law indicates individuals cannot leave a motor vehicle unattended while the engine is running.

“The reason is twofold,” said Moore. “A running, unattended vehicle is a tempting target for car theft. Also, if left in the garage, can pose a carbon monoxide hazard.”

With the change in weather quickly approaching, the 341st MW has already begun to prep Airmen.

Airmen are encouraged to winter prep their vehicles before it snows. This includes changing washer fluid meant for below freezing temperatures, adding an ice scraper brush for when ice freezes over the windshield and extra water in the event an individual becomes stranded in their vehicle.

If an individual does become stranded the safety office recommends they remain in their vehicle for shelter and protection and wait until help arrives. Individuals should not attempt to travel through the elements for help.

A complete cold weather gear bag is required for those working in the missile field to have accessible at all times beginning Oct. 1.

Airmen must have the gear with them at all times, either in their personally owned vehicle collocated with them or on their person in case the snow strikes. Items required include cold weather boots, gortex jacket and pants, gloves and fleece cap or beanie.

Airmen will maintain this requirement until May 1, 2017.