Today is Ice Storm Day

^^ From NWS Paducah in Jan 2009, after a Historic Ice Storm. ^^

Beware of the threat from Ice Storms. Ice Storms present both a travel threat, and a threat to life and property. Ice Storms are typically caused when a layer of warm air exists over a shallow cold air mass. Precipitation will change to rain in the warmer air, and then as it hits the surface(which is below freezing) it will freeze on contact creating a glaze.

Some Facts

• Ice as little as trace amounts can cause travel issues(for example over 100 accidents have occurred during events were as little as a 1/10th of ice has fallen)
  
• Ice can cause widespread tree/powerline damage. Some areas during the January 26th-28th Ice Storm were without power for 2 months. Some areas of Middle Tennessee and south Central Kentucky during the February Ice Storm of 1994 were without power for anywhere from a day to 2 months.
• In Bad Ice Storms communication and modern technology is spotty at best, and could fail.
• It is important that you prepare for any possible Ice Event that could head our way.
• Hypothermia, and house fires, Carbon Monoxide poison, are also concerns during extended power outages.
• Don't leave candles unattended, keep a battery supply for flashlights, keep space heaters away from flammable items, and keep any grills away from your home.
• Stay informed if there is a threat of Ice or any Winter Event for your area.
• Bridges/Overpasses freeze first, and are the most hazardous.
  

Tips from the NWS are below.

At home or at work - Make sure you have:

• Extra flashlights and batteries
• A battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio or AM/FM portable radio
• Extra food and water (2-3 day supply)
• Extra medicine and baby items
• First Aid supplies
• Emergency Heating source**
• Carbon Monoxide Detector

TRAVELLING - Avoid doing so if possible. If you must travel:

• Watch for low-hanging or downed power lines and tree limbs.
• Keep in mind that road conditions may be extremely variable. Bridges become icy first.
• Carry a winter survival kit in your vehicle in case you become stuck. The contents of a winter survival kit include...
  • Extra blankets or sleeping bag
  • Flashlight with extra batteries
  • First Aid kit with pocket knife
  • Booster cables
  • A rope
  • A small shovel
  • A bag of sand or cat litter for traction
  • Plastic bags (for sanitation)
  • Extra gloves, hat, and socks
  • Non-perishable food items and bottled water
  • Road maps (for alternative routes)