Polar vortex sets the stage for crippling ice storm

by



[ad_1]

Now Mother Nature is upping the ante with the potential for a crippling ice storm and heavy snowfall.

Winter storm watches are in effect for nearly 10 million people in more than half a dozen states, from Arkansas to West Virginia.

“The front that brings in all this cold arctic air is also hitting the eastern United States with a few winter episodes before it’s all said and done,” CNN meteorologist Michael Guy said.

A series of storms are expected to sweep through the Midwest and Northeast this weekend and could leave behind an additional 6 to 12 inches of snow over parts of the mid-Atlantic.

With a combination of sub-zero temperatures in northern cities such as Chicago and 80-degree heat along the Gulf Coast, the elements are in place for a frontal border to develop across the east. from the United States later this week.

Models suggest the potential for another snow cycle in cities like Chicago, Indianapolis, Pittsburgh, and New York City, while significant ice accumulations are possible in parts of the Mid-Mississippi and Ohio valleys.

A crippling ice storm in the making

No less than a half to three-quarters of an inch of ice could accumulate Wednesday and Thursday in cities like Springfield, Missouri; Evansville, Indiana; and Louisville, Kentucky, resulting in travel difficulties in the area, broken tree branches and widespread power outages.

“This winter storm will be the one that could potentially present the most danger to people,” Guy says. “The storm will develop by removing moisture from the Gulf and a depression developing in the lower Mississippi Valley, with rain and storms along the Gulf of Mexico coast and freezing precipitation falling for parts of it. east of Texas and Oklahoma. “

The ice storm is expected to begin Tuesday evening, with a brief break before the second round passes Wednesday and Thursday.

There is still some uncertainty over predictions as to exactly who will get the most ice buildup, but the entire region, from Arkansas to West Virginia, faces the threat of ice.

Ice storms are known to have crippled cities. They can cause heavy pilings on the roads, stranded motorists for hours, as well as delays at airports.

States along the Gulf Coast will be on the warmer side of the storm system.

They will be too hot for ice and snow, but will likely be affected by showers and thunderstorms that will develop mid-week and persist throughout the weekend.

[ad_2]

Source link