Saturday, February 13, 2021

Ice Storm Warning for MoCo

 There is an ice storm warning in effect for the whole county. This has not happened since February 12, 2008; which is over 13 years! From NWS:

 "...ICE STORM WARNING IN EFFECT UNTIL 7 AM EST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Two to three-tenths of an inch of sleet and freezing rain causing significant icing impacts. 

* WHERE...The District of Columbia, and portions of central Maryland and northern Virginia.

* WHEN...Until 7 AM EST Sunday.

* IMPACTS...Difficult travel conditions.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Roadways are becoming very icy and dangerous. Avoid all unnecessary travel.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Travel is strongly discouraged. If you must travel, keep an extra

flashlight, food and water in your vehicle in case of an

emergency. Prepare for possible power outages.

When venturing outside, watch your first few steps taken on

steps, sidewalks, and driveways, which could be icy and slippery,

increasing your risk of a fall and injury."

I can already report a tenth of an inch of ice here in Gaithersburg and a lot of sleet on the ground(over a tenth of an inch of sleet). Pre-treatments are useless, and I can clearly see a coating of sleet on top of the freezing rain. Tree branches are facing down and look like they will snap. It's really coming down here. Every single surface, even treated ones are covered in lots of ice and sleet. Do not travel at all. Power outages are possible, and tree damage will be done. This will be extremely dangerous. There are already so many accidents and injuries on the roads now. Stay safe inside and prepare for an extended period of time without power. Here are some links to help you: What To Do When Lose Power During An Ice StormPower Outage Checker(click on your state name), and the National Weather Service for the latest updates on winter weather.

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