The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory from 1 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday for portions of New York and Pennsylvania, including Chemung, Steuben, Tioga, Bradford, Luzerne, and Wyoming counties.
Though some snow is possible with this system, the main weather threat will be freezing rain, and thus ice, forecasters said. The ice on the roads could lead to dangerous to “impossible” travel conditions at times, the Weather Service warned.
Weather alerts issued ahead of ice storm in Northeast: What to expect
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Mixed precipitation with snow and sleet accumulations up to 1 inch
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Ice accumulation around one-tenth of an inch
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Slippery roads, bridges, and overpasses
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Hazardous conditions for the Thursday morning commute
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Slow down and drive cautiously
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Check 511NY.org or call 511 for New York road conditions
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Visit 511pa.com for Pennsylvania road updates
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Residents are urged to use caution when walking on sidewalks, driveways, and stairs, as icy surfaces could increase the risk of falls.
Ice storm tips to stay safe before the storm hits
AccuWeather chief meteorologist Jonathan Porter warned of the perils from ice: “Ice storms are incredibly dangerous. A light glaze of ice can create treacherous driving conditions on bridges, highways and ramps in a matter of seconds.”
It can also quickly lead to power outages, he said: “A half inch of ice accumulation can add 500 pounds of extra weight or more to power lines. Tree branches coated in ice can snap and fall on power lines.
“Families and businesses should be prepared for the risk of extended power outages that could leave them without heat and utilities for several days after the storm,” Porter said.
How to prepare for an ice storm
Before an ice storm, take precautions to ensure your safety and the safety of your family. Here are a few things you can do, as recommended by property cleaning service PuroClean:
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Stock up on supplies. Ensure you have enough food, water, and other items to last several days.
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Trim trees. Remove branches or trees that could fall onto your home or power lines.
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Prepare your home. Insulate and seal cracks or openings to prevent drafts and preserve the heat. Have extra blankets and warm clothing on hand. Poorly-insulated pipes can burst in cold weather, so check that yours are not frozen.
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Protect your car. Park your vehicle in a covered area or garage, or cover it with a tarp or blanket to protect it from ice and falling branches.
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Charge your devices. Ensure your cell phone and other electronic devices are fully charged.
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Stay indoors. Avoid going outside during the storm if possible. Wear warm, waterproof clothing and non-slip shoes if you must go outdoors.
‘Delay all travel if possible’ during ice storm
Ice covers tree branches on Norton Street in South Berwick, Maine, on March 24, 2024, following an ice storm that knocked out power for thousands.
The National Weather Service advised that people “should delay all travel if possible. If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution and be prepared for sudden changes in visibility. Leave plenty of room between you and the motorist ahead of you, and allow extra time to reach your destination. Avoid sudden braking or acceleration, and be especially cautious on hills or when making turns.”
“Make sure your car is winterized and in good working order,” the weather service said.
Contributing: USA Today Network
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Weather alerts issued in NY, PA ahead of ‘dangerous’ ice storm
