Winter Storm Watch vs. Winter Storm Warning: What’s the Difference?

Tracking severe weather can sometimes feel like it requires a degree in meteorology. With complex scientific terms and technical jargon, it can be difficult to understand what it all means and what should be done to prepare. That’s when the difference between a winter storm watch and a winter storm warning matters.

Both alerts come from the National Weather Service, but they call for different levels of urgency. Here’s how the alerts work and what homeowners should do when they see one.

What Does a Winter Storm Watch Mean?

A winter storm watch means a significant winter storm is possible, but forecasters aren’t yet sure where or when it will hit or how severe it will be. According to the National Weather Service, watches often arrive a day or two before a storm and can cover heavy snow, sleet, or ice.

They give residents time to prepare, even though the storm may not reach their area. As the forecast becomes clearer, the National Weather Service may upgrade the watch to a warning, issue an advisory, or cancel it altogether.

What Does a Winter Storm Warning Mean?

A winter storm warning means dangerous winter weather is expected or already happening. Heavy snow, sleet, or ice could make travel unsafe and cause other problems, including power outages. The amount of snow or ice needed to trigger a warning varies by location.

“Each office knows the local area and will issue Warnings, Watches or Advisories based on local criteria,” according to the National Weather Service. “For example, the amount of snow that triggers a ‘Winter Storm Warning’ in the Northern Plains is typically much higher than the amount needed to trigger a ‘Winter Storm Warning’ in the Southeast.”

Warnings generally arrive closer to a storm’s arrival than watches, although forecasters can issue one before snow or ice begins falling.

What Does a Winter Weather Advisory Mean?

A winter weather advisory means snow, sleet, or ice is expected to cause problems, but forecasters don’t anticipate conditions severe enough for a warning. An advisory may signal slick roads or other travel disruptions. While the weather may be less severe than during a warning, residents should still take precautions and monitor local forecasts.

How Homeowners Can Prepare for Extreme Weather

A winter storm watch gives homeowners time to prepare before conditions worsen. That includes checking heating systems, protecting exposed pipes from freezing, and stocking up on food, medications, and other essentials.

“Your primary concerns at home or work during a winter storm are loss of heat, power and telephone service and a shortage of supplies if storm conditions continue for more than a day,” according to the National Weather Service.

Homeowners should have flashlights, spare batteries, and a charged phone in case the power goes out. Checking smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, locating snow shovels, and stocking up on ice melt can also help.

Once a warning takes effect, homeowners should finish their preparations and avoid unnecessary travel. Staying indoors is generally safest during severe winter weather.

If the power goes out, residents can close off unused rooms and wear extra layers to stay warm. Portable generators should always remain outdoors, away from windows and doors. Grills and ovens should never serve as heating sources because they can create serious safety hazards.

Residents should continue monitoring weather alerts throughout the storm. Once conditions improve, homeowners can check for damage and begin clearing snow and ice from walkways and driveways.

Sources

National Weather Service, “Winter Weather Warnings, Watches and Advisories”
National Weather Service, “Winter Weather Resources and Frequently Asked Questions”
National Weather Service, “Prepare! Don’t Let a Winter Storm Take You by Surprise”
Federal Emergency Management Agency, “Be Prepared for a Winter Storm”

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That Hole in Your Ruler Isn’t Random – Here’s What It’s Actually For

Almost everyone has used a ruler at some point, whether it was for a school project, measuring something around the house, or drawing a straight line. But even after years of using one, there’s a small detail that’s easy to miss: the hole near the end.

Those holes in rulers aren’t just part of the design. They actually serve a purpose, and the reason they’re there goes back further than most people might expect. Here’s what they’re for, how they were used in the past, and a few other ways they come in handy.

Why Do Some Rulers Have a Hole at One End?

The hole at the end of a ruler is mainly there for storage. It lets people hang the ruler on a hook, nail, or pegboard instead of leaving it in a drawer or on a workbench. This is particularly helpful with longer metal rulers that might not fit in a toolbox.

But the hole has been around for much longer than modern workshops. Years ago, before paper notebooks became common in schools, students practiced writing on small slate boards. They could wipe away their writing with a damp cloth and use the board again.

Some students tied that cloth to their rulers with a piece of string through the hole. That way, they always had something nearby to clean their slates. Schools eventually moved away from slate boards, but the holes remained. Today, they’re mostly there to make rulers easier to hang and store.

What Are the Other Uses for Holes in Rulers?

Hanging a ruler isn’t the only reason manufacturers add holes. Some rulers have several, and they can serve different purposes depending on where they’re placed. For example, certain school rulers have three holes spaced along one side. These line up with the rings in a standard three-ring binder, so students can keep their rulers with their other school supplies.

Some rulers also have holes that help with drawing circles. A pin through one hole can hold the ruler in place while a pencil in another hole traces a circle as the ruler turns. Not every ruler has holes designed for this, but specialty models like the Creative Grids Quick Trim Ruler do. A compass is still a better choice when exact measurements matter.

Some crafting rulers have holes for more specific jobs. Quilting rulers and templates may have openings that help mark circles or line up fabric before cutting. Others have slots or shaped edges that guide a rotary cutter, making it easier to cut certain shapes.

There are also special rulers for paper crafts and stitching. Some have rows of tiny, evenly spaced holes that help people mark where to make stitches or decorative patterns.

Of course, not every ruler has holes. Smaller plastic rulers often don’t need them, while longer metal versions may have one at each end. It mostly comes down to how the manufacturer expects people to use the ruler. And for everyday measuring, the holes don’t make much difference. A ruler without them can measure just as accurately as one with them.

Sources

• STAEDTLER, “Rulers and Set Squares for School, Professional Use and Technical Drawing“
• Kapro, “306 Ruler“
• Westcott, “Flat Aluminum Yardstick”
• University of Wisconsin–Madison, “Object History: Slate”

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The Best Holiday Decorations Across the U.S., and How to Steal the Look

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A post shared by jessica archibald (@jessicarchibald)

The Pumpkin House

Halloween 2026 has come and gone, but it’s never too early to start thinking about next year! Known simply as The Pumpkin House, @jessicarchibald lines her roof, porch, and yard with hundreds of jack-o’-lanterns every Halloween season. The piles of pumpkins make a big impact both during the day and at night.

Steal This Idea: All you need is pumpkins! Attach faux pumpkins to long boards to make them easier to display on the roof.

Salt Lake City, Utah

The Kraken House

The Kraken House (@krakenhousenola) captured here by @amournola, uses blow-up decor to explore the haunted seas. The blow-up tentacles hint at a sea monster hiding beyond the windows, but the dramatic lighting is what really makes this house shine.

Steal This Idea: Skip the kid-friendly Bluey holiday inflatable this year, and attach these terrifying tentacles instead. Then turn up the drama with solar up-lights in green and purple.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Vintage Black Cat Porch

Can you believe this amazing black cat is a DIY project? To transform this front porch into a Halloween stage, @allset_bygabrielle hand-carved the cat figure out of wood and painted every detail.

Steal This Idea: In addition to the vintage-inspired cat, the spooky forest framing the door was made with a mix of dead branches and faux botanicals; providing texture and a subtle sparkle.

Cold Spring Harbor, New York

Spooky Gothic Entry

This front entry in New York City (photographed by @victoria.nycvisit) uses dark drapery, black roses, and a wide variety of unique pumpkins and squashes to create a gothic masterpiece. Trick-or-treaters beware!

Steal This Idea: It’s amazing what a few swathes of black and burgundy fabric can do. Drape the fabric around your front door to make an eerie entrance. Then use pumpkins and vases full of dark flowers to complete the look.

Upper West Side, Manhattan

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Golden Harvest Stoop

This viral townhouse @stoopandthecity, is dressed to the nines for every holiday. This autumn harvest display features patterned pumpkins and cascades of fall foliage. It’s perfect for Thanksgiving or for those that prefer to skip the ghosts and goblins. 

Steal This Idea: Choose faux and glass pumpkins in a cohesive color scheme, and don’t hold back on the fall foliage. Use faux stems to make the display last all season long.

Upper East Side, Manhattan

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A post shared by Marissa Fiala | Houston, TX (@houstonhotspots)

River Oaks Christmas Lights

When it comes to Christmas lights, you can’t find much better than the extravagant homes in the River Oaks neighborhood of Houston, Texas. Each home goes all out with sparkling lights on its exterior, wrapped around every tree.

Steal This Idea: The secret to this colorful tree, captured by @houstonhotspots, is wrapping the lights tightly around the trunk and every single branch. The technique takes time but makes a big impact. Use LED lights to cut back on electricity use.

Houston, Texas

Castro Street Christmas House

This famous house on Castro Street in San Francisco does not hold back! (Photo by @415urbanadventures.) Every exterior surface is covered in decor. The symmetrical layout keeps it looking classy instead of gaudy. And of course, the star of the show is Santa hanging in the middle, ready to deliver gifts.

Steal This Idea: The key element of this display is the garland covered in shiny Christmas ornaments. When you think you’ve gathered enough baubles, you’ll probably need even more!

San Francisco, California

Cascading Lights in Ohio

The historic mill in Clifton, Ohio, is known for its over-the-top Christmas light display, featuring over four million lights! While you might not have a historic mill to decorate, the lighting techniques can be used on your own home to dazzle the entire neighborhood.

Steal This Idea: The most memorable element of this display is the iconic red lights cascading down the hillside. Try laying strings lights in rows along your entire yard to get a similar look.

Clifton, Ohio

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A post shared by Joe Yost | Yost Team -Compass Pittsburgh (@joeyostteam)

Giant Red Bow

Make your house look like one giant Christmas present by adding a larger-than-life red bow. This Pittsburgh mansion is famous for its red Christmas bow that looks beautifully whimsical in the daytime and lights up at night.

Steal This Idea: You don’t need a mansion to recreate this look. Get your own giant red bow and hang it above your front door. Here’s one available on Etsy!

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

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Pink Christmas Cottage

One way to set your house apart for Christmas is to use a non-traditional color scheme —like pink! This darling cottage from @pinkdreamcollection is a frosted pink confection complete with pink trees and pink nutcracker figurines.

Steal This Idea: Pink or pastel Christmas decor will make your home look playful and unique. Use different shades of pink to add dimension.

Portsmouth, Ohio

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A post shared by The Hazard’s Gingerbread House (@hazardsgingerbreadhouse)

Light-Up Gingerbread House

This spectacular residential light display by Walter Hazard (@hazardsgingerbreadhouse) makes his home look like a technicolor gingerbread house. The secret is the wire-fencing frames he uses to create methodical light patterns. Visitors come from all over the area to witness the gorgeous lights in action.

Steal This Idea: We might not all have the same light-manipulation talent as Walter, but you can get the same grid-like coverage with LED curtain lights like these.

Highlands Ranch, Colorado

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If You See Cyan Lights on a Car, Here’s What They Mean

Colored lights play an important part in driving safety. Red brake lights mean a vehicle is slowing down, amber turn signals indicate someone is turning, flashing red and blue indicate an emergency, and yellow lights can mean a hazard or warning.

But what about cyan? Drivers might be noticing that color more often in the future as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently proposed new federal standards for these lights as automated vehicles become more common.

Learn what the color would mean, where it’s already appearing, and what drivers should expect in the future.

What Cyan Lights on Self-Driving Cars Mean and Why They’re Being Proposed

Cyan lights would indicate that a vehicle’s automated driving system is in control and no one inside needs to actively monitor the road. The lights could appear on cars with someone behind the wheel or vehicles that operate without a human driver.

On Oct. 23, NHTSA announced a proposal to establish federal standards for these lights, including their placement and brightness. The lights would remain steady rather than flash, and drivers would be able to see them from all sides of the vehicle. The proposal is part of a broader effort to update safety requirements for automated vehicles, including those NHTSA describes as “vehicles designed never to be driven by a human being.”

“As automotive technology continues to evolve, our safety standards must keep pace with innovation in ways that do not compromise public safety,” NHTSA Administrator Jonathan Morrison said in the agency’s release. “These proposed updates address unnecessary regulatory burdens for vehicles built without traditional manual controls while establishing clear performance standards for automated vehicle marker lamps. By aligning our regulations with today’s technology, we are paving the way for safe innovation and setting clear rules of the road for automated vehicles.”

Cyan would help other drivers, pedestrians, and law enforcement recognize when an automated system is handling the driving. Unlike common driver-assistance features that help with steering or speed, these systems can operate without constant human supervision under certain conditions.

The lights wouldn’t give self-driving cars any special privileges or change how other drivers should behave around them.

Where Cyan Lights on Cars Have Already Appeared and When More Could Arrive

Mercedes-Benz has already received permission to use turquoise-colored lights on certain vehicles in California and Nevada. California approved testing on freeways, while Nevada allowed the lights on certain production vehicles.

The lights work with Mercedes-Benz’s Drive Pilot system, which can handle driving under specific conditions. A driver still needs to remain available to take control when requested. The company has tested the lights near the outside mirrors and on the front and rear of its vehicles.

“Mercedes-Benz is committed to standardizing the color turquoise,” the company said in a release, explaining that the goal is to make automated driving systems easier for people to recognize around the world.

Those approvals came before NHTSA’s latest proposal, which could establish a consistent standard for other manufacturers across the country. For now, the new federal rules are still under consideration. Even if NHTSA finalizes them, carmakers wouldn’t have to install cyan lights on self-driving vehicles. Manufacturers that choose to use them would need to follow the new standards.

Under the proposal, the lights could turn on when the automated system is driving without someone monitoring the road. They’d have to turn off when a person is expected to resume that responsibility. Drivers wouldn’t need to do anything differently when they see cyan lights, but they’d have a clearer idea of who’s controlling the vehicle.

Sources

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, “Trump’s Transportation Department Makes Commonsense Updates to Vehicle Lighting Standards for AVs”

U.S. Department of Transportation, “Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards; Modernization of FMVSS No. 108 To Accommodate ADS-Equipped Vehicles”
Mercedes-Benz, “Mercedes-Benz Receives Approvals for Turquoise-Colored Automated Driving Marker Lights in California and Nevada”
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, “Driver Assistance Technologies”

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How To Spot a Flood-Damaged Car Before You Buy It

With the average cost of a new car approaching $50,000, it can make more financial sense to buy used. But, while the lower price point is appealing, mechanic David Martin says to shop carefully and to check any used car for signs of flooding. “Engine computers, sensors, electrical connectors and wiring are vulnerable to corrosion, expensive to fix and could endanger lives,” he says. Not all cars that have been in a flood will be given a flood title, and unscrupulous sellers will mask this fact from would-be buyers. Ahead, learn how to tell if you’re buying a flood-damaged car, with expert-backed advice from Martin. 

Check for Water, Mud and Musty Odors

Use your nose to detect water damage inside the vehicle. “If the car smells musty or moldy, watch out,” Martin says. “Also, pay attention to cars that have strong air freshener or detergent scents. They could be used to mask flood-related mildew.” Additionally, look for silt or mud in glove compartments or under seats where it may have been overlooked during cleaning. Finding it is a tell-tale sign the car has been flooded. Also look carefully for condensation behind instrument panels and interior and exterior lights.

Look for Rust and Corrosion

Check for any rust or flaking metal on the car’s underside, especially on brake lines and around the fuel tank, Martin says. Lift the hood and look for corrosion on the battery terminals and engine components, then open the car doors and inspect the door hinges for signs of rust. 

Check the Upholstery and Carpeting

Vehicle upholstery and carpeting can reveal signs of flooding. Feel for dampness and look for stains, as well as loose, wrinkled or buckled carpeting. Additionally, pull seat belts all the way out to check for stains, mildew or mud and look for mismatched or recently replaced carpeting and upholstery.

Test the Electronics

Turn on the car and do a thorough test of the car’s electrical components. Check the power windows, door locks, seat controls, and backup camera. “Make sure all lights, the air conditioner, heater, wipers, turn signals, stereo and navigation systems work,” Martin says. “And test them more than once.” Even if an electrical component is working, check to make sure it’s working properly. Flickering lights and intermittent functioning can also be signs of water damage. 

Check the Vehicle History

Flood-damaged cars may be moved across state lines and retitled, so always get a Carfax report, which tracks a vehicle’s complete history regardless of location. Additionally, run the vehicle’s VIN number through the National Insurance Crime Bureau. “The service can identify whether a car has been reported stolen or labeled as salvage by insurance companies due to flooding,” Martin says. “But, while these reports can be helpful, they don’t cover everything.That’s why having a certified mechanic inspect a used car before you buy is a smart investment.”

Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection

Even if you don’t suspect a car has been flooded after looking it over yourself, a professional mechanic could catch subtle signs you missed, as well as any other mechanical issues with the vehicle. Ask them to specifically check for signs of flooding. 

FAQ

Can a flooded car have a clean title?

Yes, a flood-damaged car can still have a clean title and show no record of flooding in its history. 

Is it safe to buy a car that has been flooded?

No, not if you intend to drive it. Issues can continue to arise years after a flooding event that can impact the vehicle’s functioning. However, you could buy a flooded car with the intention of using it for parts. 

About the Expert

• David Martin is an automotive mechanic and owner of Martin’s Auto Repair in Phoenix, Arizona.

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Yes, Different Curb Colors Have a Meaning — A Guide to Decoding Them

What Do Red Curbs Mean for Parking and Stopping?

Red curbs generally mean drivers can’t stop or park there, even for a few minutes. That includes waiting in the car while someone runs into a store. They’re common near fire hydrants, intersections, and bus stops, where parked cars could block traffic or get in the way. Some red zones still allow buses to stop to pick up or drop off passengers.

What Do White Curbs Mean for Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers?

White curbs usually allow drivers to stop long enough to pick up or drop off passengers. They’re often found outside hotels, schools, and hospitals.

But they aren’t regular parking spaces. Drivers generally need to stay with their vehicles and leave once their passengers get in or out. Some cities have different rules, though. San Francisco, for example, also allows certain white curbs to be used for quickly loading or unloading goods.

What Do Yellow Curbs Mean for Loading and Unloading?

Yellow curbs usually mark loading zones. They’re often found near businesses where delivery drivers need somewhere to stop while dropping off packages or other goods. Commercial vehicles can typically use these areas for a short time, although some cities allow passenger vehicles to stop there, too. These aren’t regular parking spaces, and nearby signs usually explain how long drivers can stop.

What Do Green Curbs Mean for Short-Term Parking?

Green curbs generally mean drivers can park, but only for a short time. They’re common near businesses where customers might need to stop for a few minutes. The time limit isn’t always the same, so drivers should check the curb or nearby signs before leaving their cars. Some spaces also have parking meters or restrictions during certain hours.

What Do Blue Curbs Mean for Accessible Parking?

Blue curbs mark parking spaces for people with disabilities. Cities often place these spaces near building entrances to make them easier to access. Drivers need a valid disability parking placard or qualifying license plate to park in these spaces. Without one, they can’t use the spot, even for a quick stop.

The striped areas next to accessible parking spaces also need to stay clear so people have enough room to get in and out of their vehicles.

Sources

• California Department of Motor Vehicles, “California Driver’s Handbook, Section 6: Navigating the Roads (Continued), Parking at Colored Curbs“
• Los Angeles Department of Transportation, “Colored Curb Zones“
• Seattle Department of Transportation, “Curb Colors“
• San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency, “Loading and Short-Term Parking“
• Federal Highway Administration, “Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices, 11th Edition with Revision 1“

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What Is “Heart Attack Snow,” and Why Is It So Dangerous?

Shoveling snow can be a dangerous winter chore. Icy walkways can cause serious falls, and prolonged exposure to the cold can lead to hypothermia or frostbite. Another safety concern is something called “heart attack snow.”

The name sounds dramatic, but it points to a real concern for people clearing sidewalks and driveways in winter. For those in snowy climates, understanding the risks of heart attack snow is important before picking up a shovel.

Understanding the risks can help prevent a routine chore from becoming a medical emergency.

Why Is Heavy, Wet Heart Attack Snow Dangerous to Shovel?

Heart attack snow is a nickname for heavy, wet snow that’s harder to shovel than dry, powdery snow. The name comes from the strain that lifting this type of snow can place on the heart. According to the National Weather Service, snow with a higher water content weighs more, making each shovelful harder to lift.

The added effort can quickly raise heart rate and blood pressure. Cold temperatures also cause blood vessels to narrow, making the heart work harder. The American Heart Association warns that this combination can trigger a heart attack or sudden cardiac arrest.

The association says the risks are especially concerning for “people who already have cardiovascular risks like a sedentary lifestyle or obesity,” including those with a history of smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure. People who have previously suffered a heart attack or stroke also face greater risks.

Even lighter, powdery snow can be dangerous, especially when large amounts require repeated lifting or hours of clearing.

How to Shovel Snow Safely and Reduce the Risk of a Heart Attack

Before heading outside, people should warm up indoors and stretch gently. Dressing in layers helps protect against the cold, while staying hydrated is important even when someone doesn’t feel thirsty.

The American Heart Association recommends pushing snow rather than lifting it whenever possible. When lifting is necessary, smaller loads and frequent breaks can help limit physical strain. A snow blower can also reduce the amount of lifting, although operating one still requires effort.

Slippery surfaces are another concern. “Walking on ice is extremely dangerous,” according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The agency recommends using rock salt or another de-icing product to keep walkways clear of ice. Sand can also help prevent slipping.

People with heart disease or significant cardiovascular risk factors should have someone else handle snow removal, according to the American Heart Association.

Recognizing the warning signs of a heart attack is equally important. Chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, cold sweats, or discomfort in the arms, back, or jaw can all signal a serious problem. Symptoms aren’t always severe and can vary from person to person.

Anyone experiencing possible heart attack symptoms should stop shoveling immediately and call 911. The American Heart Association advises against waiting to see whether symptoms go away.

Sources

American Heart Association, “Snow Shoveling, Cold Temperatures Combine for Perfect Storm of Heart Health Hazards”
American Heart Association, “Warning Signs of a Heart Attack”
National Weather Service, “Winter Weather Preparedness”
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Safety Guidelines: During & After a Winter Storm”

RELATED:

• The 5 States Where Winter Driving Is Most Dangerous
• Which States Have the Highest and Lowest Property Taxes?
• The Biggest Home in Each State That Will Stun You

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