The caution is in effect from 10 a.m. on Friday to 7 a.m. on Saturday, with forecasters expecting heavy icing across the area. Ice accumulation is anticipated to range between two-tenths and three-tenths of an inch in most regions, with some places reaching half an inch. A thin layer of snow is also predicted to fall on top of the ice, worsening the situation.
Officials warned that roads, bridges, and overpasses will be particularly vulnerable. The weather service cited:
“Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous. Power outages and tree damage are likely due to the ice. Travel could be nearly impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the Friday morning and evening commutes.”
Travel Advisory and Safety Measures
State transportation authorities urged motorists to adhere to restrictions, delay trips, slow down, leave enough space between vehicles, and ensure cars are winter-ready. The storm system will traverse across Michigan and the Great Lakes, resulting in rain initially, followed by colder air that will transform precipitation into freezing rain, sleet, and snow. Roads may shift from wet to icy in a short period, and visibility is expected to be low as the storm intensifies.
Meteorologists predict that 1–4 inches of snow across much of Michigan, with more amounts in northwestern parts of Lower Michigan due to lake-effect snow bands. Freezing rain is anticipated to accumulate up to one-tenth of an inch, covering roads, sidewalks, and vehicles, which could result in crashes, spinouts, and major traffic backups. Morning and evening travellers are expected to encounter major interruptions.
The winter weather advisory spans a broader stretch of Lower Michigan, that includes Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Washtenaw, Ingham, and Kent counties, along with many northern regions.
Winter Driving Safety
Winter conditions make driving treacherous and result in more than 6,000 weather-related vehicle fatalities and over 480,000 injuries every year. Drivers are recommended to:
- Lower the speed and assume icy conditions on all roadways.
- Avoid driving near trees and power lines whenever possible.
- Be careful of ice accumulation on power lines or branches, which can result in hazards.
- Never touch downed power lines and quickly call 911 if encountered.
Travelers are urged to stay informed of local weather updates and adhere to guidance from officials to ensure safety during snow, sleet, or freezing rain events.
FAQs:
Q1. What areas are under the ice storm warning?
The warning spans regions of Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York, and Michigan. It includes cities like Pittsburgh, Clarion, Latrobe, and other nearby counties.
Q2. When is the ice storm warning in effect?
The alert is active from 10 a.m. Friday to 7 a.m. Saturday. Residents are recommended to plan travel accordingly.