ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — This weekend, a major winter storm is forecast to hit the Asheville area. With power outages in play, get ahead of the snow by preparing a practical food plan.

When it comes to snow storms, which carry the possibility of losing power or being confined to your home, it is best to focus on food that does not require power, refrigeration or too much kitchen prep.

Shopping list at a glance

  • Canned goods like soups, beans and other vegetables
    • Locating a manual can opener is a good idea
  • Dry food like crackers, bread and cereal
  • Protein-packed pastes like peanut butter and nut butter
  • Fruits and vegetables like apples, oranges and carrots
  • Ready-made snacks like granola, protein bars and trail mix
  • Bottled water
  • Bottled liquids like shelf‑stable milk and juice
  • Protein-packed snacks like beef jerky, sunflower seeds and peanuts

When it comes to water, err on the side of caution. The FDA recommends one gallon of water per person per day. Keep checking the forecast, but purchasing at least three days worth of water for your household is good practice.

Additionally, if you have access to a camp stove, that means that boiling water is an option. Buy extra water for boiling if things like pasta are in your food plan, as well as water for washing.

Don’t forget: Pets are part of your household, too. Before the storm, make sure to stock up on extra pet food. For water, follow the same one gallon a day guideline for your animals.

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