18F (-7C) That should still be warm enough you don't need to plug your car in, so no worries it won't start. Or, is it the snow that bothers you? Definitely yes, that is a reason to stay home; but, if you want to reach your brother's prepare yourself. Make sure you are dressed warmly, take along a blanket, a tin can and candle, snow shovel, and food.

As for the event of a power outage. You don't have to worry about pipes bursting until the temperature falls to -3F (-16C). Put candles in tin cans - the cans will radiate heat and help keep the temperature from falling quickly.

In my own effort to battle my worry about such, I try to look at such potential as rather potential for an adventure to talk about later. In the meantime, drag out your blankets.