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Eugene -Springfield Area Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan 2. Hazard Descriptions Table 2-16 Windstorm- Impact Risks Cascading Incidents Ranking Civil Unrest No Known Dam or Levee Failure No Known Epidemic No Known Hazardous Materials Low 2.10.8 Existing Mitigation Activities The Cities of Eugene and Springfield along with EWEB and SUB routinely trim trees to prevent power outages due to falling limbs and trees. Additionally, funding is being actively pursued to equip all Eugene fire stations with backup generators. 2.11 Winter Storm The probability of, and vulnerability to, winter storms in Eugene and Springfield is high. In previous Eugene -Springfield NHMPs extreme weather, windstorms, and heavy rain were included under winter storms. This update addresses extreme weather, windstorms, and the repercussions of heavy rain (flooding and landslides) with dedicated assessments within Section 2. Winter storms are storms where below freezing temperatures and precipitation combine to produce adverse conditions. These storms could include snow, ice, extreme cold, and/or frost heave. 2.11.1 Causes and Characteristics of the Hazard Extreme Cold Extreme cold periods vary in severity based on temperature and duration. Long durations and/or extreme lows increase the severity of a cold wave incident. Extreme cold incidents can be life -threatening for those exposed to the elements. These conditions can worsen when mixed with wind creating dangerous "wind chill' (Figure 2-12). Frost Heave Frost heave occurs when soil swells upwards due to ice forming within the ground. Generally, its effects are mild in the Eugene -Springfield area When subzero temperatures occur, and the ground is saturated with water, more damaging frost heave incidents can occur. Primary damage from frost heave is seen when structures such as utility poles and storage tanks tilt or topple due to destabilization of the supporting ground. 2-69 January 2020