Major Ice Storm to Hit Midwest and Northeast U.S.
A significant ice storm is expected to impact the Midwest and Northeast U.S. this week, bringing snow, sleet, and freezing rain through Thursday. The extreme weather is anticipated to cause hazardous travel conditions and power outages from Minnesota to Maine.
AccuWeather meteorologist Brandon Buckingham warns of the potential for dangerous ice accumulation, posing a risk for tree damage and power outages. Several inches of snow are forecast across the upper Midwest, the interior Northeast, and parts of New England. Up to three inches of snow is expected throughout the Midwest and Great Lakes regions through Wednesday night, with greater amounts of up to six inches possible in higher elevations.
The Ohio Valley and Mid-Atlantic regions may see ice accumulations up to a quarter of an inch, potentially causing scattered power outages and tree damage. A winter weather advisory has been issued in Ohio through Thursday for freezing rain, and conditions have already caused accidents in Kansas. Power outages have also been reported in Pennsylvania, which is under an ice storm warning.
Gusts of up to 50 mph are expected to strike the Great Lakes on Thursday, with wind gusts over 30 mph possible across the Interstate 95 corridor of the Northeast on Friday. Meanwhile, over the central states, severe thunderstorms are anticipated to bring the threats of hail and damaging wind gusts over 50 mph.
This storm marks the beginning of what AccuWeather predicts could be one of the stormiest periods of the winter from the Plains to the East Coast this month. The company notes the potential for a third storm early next week, with the possibility of colder air and more moisture bringing snow and icy impacts to a larger area.
AccuWeather Lead Long-Range Forecaster Paul Pastelok stated last month, "We are monitoring three potential storms between Feb. 5-11. This will be a busy pattern with potential disruptions to travel and business.
10 Comments
The Truth
“Every winter, forecasts like this cause unnecessary anxiety. I say save the drama for when it actually happens.”
Answer
“What’s the point of predicting doom when people just use it to boost web traffic? It’s alarmist.”
The Truth
“Thanks for the heads up! Better to be prepared for dangerous conditions than caught off guard.”
Answer
“This is a good reminder to check on neighbors and loved ones when the weather turns dangerous.”
Rotfront
“AccuWeather’s warnings are on point. We need all the information we can get to stay safe.”
ArtemK
“How many times have we heard ‘dangerous storm’ and then nothing happens? I’m skeptical.”
Coccinella
“The media keeps hyping up normal winter weather as if it’s the end of the world. Not buying it!”
Africa
“I doubt we’re going to see the catastrophic weather they describe. They’re just playing on our fears.”
Bella Ciao
“I appreciate the detailed forecast – it helps me plan my travels and secure my home.”
Comandante
“I think this is just another tactic to get more views. The weather might be bad, but it’s not a crisis.”