Jack Frost is making his presence known in the New Year. California endured a severe winter storm at New Year's Eve that trapped hundreds of motorists and killed at least five people.

Last week, 35 vehicles were piled up on Interstate 93 in New Hampshire due to a winter storm.

Winter weather can be unpredictable. It makes sense to be prepared, especially when it comes to protective clothing.

We have compiled the best coats available to keep your family warm and protected through the ice, snow, freezing rain and bone-chilling temperatures of winter.  

Adults Winter Coats

Women will find the Lord & Taylor winter coat sale especially pleasing with down feather favorites from Guess and Calvin Klein. More winter coats from Kenneth Cole, Ralph Lauren and other designers on sale.

Men will find winter coats on sale at Nordstrom from Vince Camuto, Hugo Boss, The North Face and other designers.

L.L. Bean is having a winter sale, offering 50 percent off high-quality apparel, including coats and jackets.

Men's Ultralight 850 Down Sweater Jacket. Don't let the 10 ounce weight fool you, this jacket is incredibly warm on chilly days. Insulated with premium 850 DownTek down, it is treated to repel 33 percent more moisture and dry 66 percent faster than untreated down. Adjustable drawcord at the hem seals out cold wind. On sale for $149.00 (Regular price: $169.00).

Women's Winter Warmer Coat. Stay warm on the coldest of days with the highly water-resistant nylon shell fabric that also withstands wind gusts. The body and hood are lined with fleece. Thinsulate insulation polyester in the sleeves gives you more warmth. Princess seams give the coat a flattering fit. Pockets, drawcord waist and an adjustable hood ensure you stay warm and dry. Falls above the knee. On sale $99.99 (Regular price: $119.00).

Kids Winter Coats

Macy's is having a great kids' winter coat sale on all brand names, like London Fog, The North Face, and Jessica Simpson. Sizes baby to youth.  Up to 55 percent off.

JCPenney's winter coat sale features Columbia, Weatherproof, Vertical 9, ZeroXposur and more brand names. Save up to 50 percent off.

Dog Winter Coats

Do dogs really need winter coats? PetMD reports that while dogs have their own external layering system, some dogs have lighter layers of fur than others. Certain dog breeds are not genetically suited to harsh, cold environments. According to PetMD, your dog may be extremely uncomfortable in winter temperatures-as uncomfortable as you would be if you went outside without clothing.

For accurate sizing, measure in inches from the back of your dog's collar, along the dog's back, to the base of the tail. The length is the appropriate size.

In the name of fashion and protecting pets, let's explore winter coats for dogs.

Muttluks 3-Layer Belted Winter Dog Coat, Size 24. This rugged coat has three layers of warmth and versatile fit for tough winter weather. Nylon exterior with lofty inner core and faux Sherpa interior. Buy it on sale at Amazon for $56.93 (Regular price: $80.00).

Ruffwear Climate Changer Fleece Dog Coat. Rated nearly 5 stars by REI customers, the Ruffwear Climate Changer fleece dog coat gives your 4-legged best friend an extra layer of protection for trail running or any outdoor activity on cold, dry days. Buy it at REI for $59.95.