How to Use Meteorology
for Snow Removal

One of the best ways to help your business have a successful snow removal season is by being prepared when winter storms strike. A good way to do that is through learning more about weather models and systems and how to make accurate weather predictions. I sat down with Caterpillar customer Chris Colitas (aka Snow Boss) of Keystone Snow Management to learn more about how he uses meteorology for snow removal and how other businesses can use it too.

What Are Weather Models and How Do They Work?

According to the National Weather Service, weather models take in data from many sources, ranging from satellites to weather balloons to aircraft, which then are input into the model itself to create a picture of our weather. These models can be used to predict hours or days into the future, so knowing how to read them comes in handy for snow removal businesses.

How Can You Use Meteorology for Snow Removal?

Chris has always had an interest in meteorology, and so applying it to his snow removal business was a no-brainer.

“Every piece of equipment, every drop of salt, is predicated on what the weather is going to do,” says Chris. “We need to plan out how we’re going to attack each storm, especially being in Pennsylvania, since sometimes they’re just ice, sometimes they start as ice and turn to snow, and sometimes they start as snow and turn to ice. Having that knowledge is imperative to the operation.”

Chris uses his meteorological knowledge to influence what materials and resources he uses for each storm. If the storm will start out as rain, for example, he and his crew won’t pre-treat anything. He also needs to know whether there will be enough snow to warrant scraping. He looks at models about two weeks in advance and continues monitoring throughout the winter season to stay prepared.