A significant ice storm is advancing across four states in the United States, resulting in adverse winter weather conditions and complications for travel. The state meteorological agency recommends exercising caution and ensuring preparedness.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), a significant storm is anticipated to result in ice accumulation and strong winds across Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania, persisting through Thursday.
The regions impacted are reportedly identified as north-central and western Maryland, northwest Virginia, eastern and the panhandle of West Virginia, as well as central and western Pennsylvania.
An Ice Storm Warning indicates that a minimum accumulation of one-quarter inch of ice is anticipated. Authorities have issued a warning indicating that certain regions may experience ice accumulation of up to half an inch, accompanied by wind surges reaching 35 mph. This combination significantly heightens the risk of extensive power outages and obstructed roadways.
The impending storm is expected to complicate travel, particularly on bridges and overpasses, which are prone to rapid freezing. Icy road conditions may result in accidents and road closures. Significant accumulation of ice on power lines and trees has the potential to result in extensive power disruptions that may persist for several days. Falling branches have the potential to inflict harm on power lines, thereby impeding the speed of repairs.
Travel may prove to be exceedingly difficult, particularly during the evening commute on Wednesday and the morning commute on Thursday. Authorities strongly advise individuals to refrain from travelling on roadways and to make preparations for potential power outages. The National Weather Service has delineated the cities and counties anticipated to be affected by the impending cyclone.
In the state of Maryland, the advisory encompasses Garrett, Washington, and Allegany counties, specifically including the extreme western, central, and eastern regions of Allegany County. Concurrently, in the state of Virginia, the advisory encompasses the counties of Frederick and Clarke, in addition to the Northern Virginia Blue Ridge region.
Ice Storm Warnings and Winter Weather Advisories have been issued for much of the region. Wintry precipitation will result in hazardous travel Wednesday into Thursday. For more details and the latest information, visit https://t.co/ZOlvEShgSf #DCwx #MDwx #VAwx #WVwx pic.twitter.com/T74Er6htGl
— NWS Baltimore-Washington (@NWS_BaltWash) February 4, 2025
Concurrently, various localities in West Virginia are anticipated to encounter perilous conditions. The regions of Northwest and Southeast Pocahontas counties, encompassing Marlinton and Snowshoe, are susceptible to the impending cyclone.
To the south, Hardy County, in conjunction with Western and Eastern Grant counties, lies within the trajectory of the cyclone. Both Western and Eastern Mineral counties may experience hazardous ice accumulation. Western Pendleton County is likewise impacted.
The Eastern and Western Greenbrier Counties, encompassing the municipalities of Lewisburg, White Sulphur Springs, Rainelle, Quinwood, and Duo, are likewise impacted. Warnings have also been issued for the municipalities of Rowlesburg, Canaan Valley, Terra Alta, Thomas, and Davis.
In Pennsylvania, the impending storm is anticipated to affect multiple counties, including Westmoreland, Fayette, Indiana, and Somerset. The communities impacted by the situation encompass Champion, Donegal, Ohiopyle, Hazelton, Ligonier, and Armagh.
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As a precautionary measure, the National Weather Service (NWS) advises residents to refrain from travelling due to hazardous driving conditions caused by icy roads and freezing drizzle. Should travel be essential, please proceed with caution by driving at a reduced speed, maintaining an increased following distance, and remaining vigilant for abrupt alterations in visibility. Hills and curves may present significant hazards; therefore, it is advisable to refrain from abrupt deceleration or sudden acceleration.
Prior to embarking on your journey, it is advisable to verify road conditions by contacting 511, and ensure that your vehicle is adequately prepared for winter weather conditions. Maintain an emergency kit that includes a torch, provisions, and water to prepare for the possibility of becoming stranded.
In light of the advisories, residents are encouraged to remain informed by monitoring local emergency alerts or by accessing the National Weather Service (NWS) website for updates and safety information.