How to handle a winter power outage

A massive storm has already caused disruptions across the Midwest and is expected to hit other parts of the U.S. with severe thunderstorms, winds, heavy rain and potentially record-breaking cold throughout the weekend. Western states such as Oregon, Idaho and Nevada can expect heavy snow on Friday and Saturday, with possible snow headed South into the Mid-Atlantic early next week, according to the National Weather Service Weather Prediction Center.

Big winter storms like this one can knock out electrical grids and cause homes to lose access to heat, appliances, the internet and even water. They