A new winter storm is expected to bring an extended period of snow and ice, resulting in dangerous travel conditions across the majority of the Northeast.
According to the National Weather Service, the system is expected to arrive overnight on Wednesday, February 5th. It will begin with widespread snow and then transition to freezing rain in the early morning hours of Thursday, February 6th. Eventually, it will shift to all rain.
According to the first image above, areas in the lighter shade of blue can expect snowfall accumulation of 1 to 3 inches. This includes parts of northern New Jersey, Pennsylvania, as well as a broad area in New York, Connecticut, and New England.
Significant to severe icing is expected in several areas, as indicated in the darker shade of the second image. These areas include parts of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia. The lighter-shaded areas, on the other hand, are forecasted to experience localized icing.
The recent ice storm, labeled as “the first ice storm in years” by AccuWeather, has caused significant disruptions due to the buildup of ice. Power lines are burdened by ice accumulation of a quarter to a half-inch, leading to power outages. Additionally, tree limbs are snapping under the weight of the ice, further contributing to the disruptions caused by the ice storm.
“Ice storms are incredibly dangerous,” AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jonathan Porter said. “A light glaze of ice can create treacherous driving conditions on bridges, highways and ramps in a matter of seconds. Travel on the roads could be virtually impossible at times in the hardest-hit areas. Road and highway closures are possible, which would impact business operations and supply chain logistics.
“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.”
There are two more winter systems that are expected to follow the ice storm, including the upcoming weekend.
