When a major storm hits and the power goes out, a portable generator can be your best friend—keeping your lights on, your food safe, and your heating or sump pump running. But if you’re preparing for extreme weather, you may be wondering: Can I run a portable generator during storms or snow?
The short answer is yes—but only if it’s set up properly and used with care. Running a generator in rain, snow, or other harsh conditions requires planning and precautions to prevent safety hazards like electrocution, carbon monoxide poisoning, or engine damage.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about operating a portable generator safely during storms and snow, including placement, protection, safety gear, and product features to look for.
Can You Use a Portable Generator in Bad Weather?
Yes, you can run a portable generator in bad weather—but not in direct exposure to rain or snow. Generators are not waterproof. Using one without protection can result in electrical shorts, equipment failure, or serious injury.
⚠️ Key Risks of Improper Generator Use During Storms:
- Electrocution: Water can penetrate outlets and internal circuits.
- Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Generators emit deadly fumes and must never be used indoors or in enclosed spaces.
- Fire Hazards: Wet fuel connections or spills can ignite.
- Mechanical Damage: Moisture can ruin engine components or freeze fuel lines in snow.
Bottom line: To safely run your portable generator in a storm or snow event, you need to protect it from direct exposure while maintaining proper ventilation and exhaust clearance.
Safe Generator Placement During Storms
Proper placement is the single most important step in safely using a generator during severe weather. Here’s what to know:
✅ Do Place Your Generator:
- Outside and at least 20 feet away from doors, windows, and vents
- Under a well-ventilated shelter (like a canopy, carport, or generator tent)
- On a dry, level surface (such as concrete or pavers, not grass or snow)
❌ Never Place a Generator:
- Inside your garage, basement, shed, or home
- Under overhangs or near snow drifts that could block airflow
- Where melting snow or runoff water can pool underneath
💨 Important: Even in cold weather, carbon monoxide can accumulate rapidly. Always use battery-powered CO detectors in your home when running a generator nearby.
How to Protect a Generator From Rain or Snow
Because portable generators aren’t waterproof, you must shield them from rain and snow. Here are your best options:
1. 🏕️ Generator Tents or Covers (Weatherproof Enclosures)
- Designed specifically to keep water out while allowing ventilation
- Made of flame-retardant and waterproof materials
- Quick setup and breakdown for emergencies
Recommended product: GenTent Safety Canopy – universally fits most portable generators
2. 🛠️ DIY Shelters or Generator Huts
- Construct from wood, plastic, or metal with at least 3 open sides
- Must have ventilation gaps to avoid CO buildup
- Raise generator slightly off the ground to avoid flooding or snow contact
3. 🚘 Carports, Open Garages, or Eaves (Only With Extreme Caution)
- Use only if the space is fully open on multiple sides
- Ensure exhaust is directed away from the home
- Monitor CO levels continuously
⚠️ Never use a tarp that fully covers the generator—it can trap exhaust gases and overheat the unit.
Winter-Specific Tips for Generator Use
❄️ Prevent Freezing:
- Use cold-weather generator oil (e.g., SAE 5W-30) in sub-zero temps
- Install a cold-weather kit (some models offer battery warmers or block heaters)
- Keep fuel and oil inside a warm area to prevent thickening or freezing
🔥 Warm-Up Period:
Let the generator run for 5–10 minutes before connecting heavy loads in freezing weather to allow oil to circulate and the engine to stabilize.
🧹 Snow & Ice Removal:
- Clear snow from vents and exhaust areas before starting
- Check that muffler and spark arrestor aren’t clogged with ice
- Ensure extension cords are off the ground to prevent freezing in slush
How to Use a Portable Generator Safely During a Storm
Follow these key steps every time you operate your generator in a storm or snowstorm:
- Move the generator outdoors, away from windows and vents
- Position under a waterproof, ventilated shelter
- Turn off and unplug all appliances before starting
- Start the generator, allow it to stabilize, then plug in cords one by one
- Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords
- Monitor fuel levels and refuel only when the engine is cool
Safety Tip: Always have a fire extinguisher and CO detector on hand when running a generator.
Best Portable Generators for Storm and Snow Use
⚡ Generac GP6500 COsense
- 6,500 running watts / 8,125 starting watts
- COsense technology for carbon monoxide shutdown
- Built for all-weather use with rugged steel frame
❄️ Honda EU7000iS Inverter Generator
- Super quiet, clean power for sensitive electronics
- Electric start with cold-weather reliability
- Fuel-efficient and low-maintenance
🔋 Bluetti AC200MAX Solar Generator
- Battery-powered (no emissions) – can run safely in enclosed shelters
- Ideal for indoor use during snowstorms (when paired with solar or AC charging)
- 2,200W output / 4,800W surge / 2,048Wh capacity
FAQs About Using Portable Generators in Storms or Snow
Q: Can I run a portable generator in the rain or snow?
Yes—but only with weather protection. Use a generator tent or open-air shelter to keep it dry and ventilated.
Q: Is it safe to leave a generator running overnight in snow?
Yes, if properly sheltered and monitored. Use fresh fuel, check CO detectors, and clear any snow buildup around the exhaust system.
Q: Will cold weather affect generator performance?
Yes. Cold can thicken oil, reduce battery output, and slow startup. Use cold-weather-rated oil and keep batteries warm if possible.
Q: What should I do if my generator gets wet?
Turn it off immediately. Let it dry completely, check for damage, and inspect outlets and cords before restarting.
Q: Can a battery-powered (solar) generator be used during snow?
Yes. Battery-powered generators can be used indoors and don’t emit fumes. However, solar charging may be slow in cloudy/snowy weather.
Conclusion: Stay Powered, Stay Safe in Any Weather
Yes, you can run a portable generator during storms and snow—but only if you follow the right safety procedures. By sheltering your generator, keeping it dry and ventilated, and preparing for cold-weather conditions, you can ensure reliable backup power without risking your safety.
Whether you’re preparing for a winter blizzard or a summer hurricane, the right setup and generator will keep your home protected when the grid goes down.
Still Shopping for a Generator?
Start with our expert guide: What Size Generator Do I Need for My Home? to find the perfect model for storm readiness and year-round emergency power.