Extremely cold weather and storms could present risks for fleets in the coming days.

Named Winter Storm Elliott by the Weather Channel, a wave of cold air and precipitation is expected to be a “once in a generation” storm, causing temperatures in all 48 continental states to fall to 20 degrees Fahrenheit or below by Christmas Eve. Winter alerts are in effect across 37 states, with over 85 million Americans impacted.

According to NOAA: “Temperatures 40 degrees below average and dangerous life-threatening wind chills as low as 50 degrees below zero are possible in the northern Rockies and northern Plains. Sub-zero to single-digit temperatures are likely across the central Plains, Midwest, Great Lakes, Ohio Valley and Midsouth.” In addition to the storm pushing eastward through the US, a separate system will bring heavy winter precipitation in the Pacific Northwest.

   

What Does This Mean for Fuel?

Extremely low temperatures increase the risk of winter diesel gelling. Kerosene can be blended to lower the filter plug point. However, given the “once-in-a-generation” nature of this winter weather, some markets may see tight kerosene supplies. Communicate with your fuel supplier to see whether your area has been impacted.

 

What Can I Do?

During severe winter weather, it’s important to take steps to keep your equipment running and prevent outages. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Make sure your fuel tanks have been treated with additive and/or kerosene. With low temperatures nationwide, areas that might not typically treat their fuel will need to use winter additives. Contact your supplier to determine the best treat rate for your area.
2. Communicate with your supplier on any changes in demand. If you expect higher demand due to the holidays or inclement weather, or site closures due to unsafe road conditions, be sure to communicate this with your fuel supplier. Contact Mansfield Now.
3. If you experience gelling in your tank, reach out to Mansfield’s Customer Service team. Support reps are standing by to help you navigate getting back into operations.