Scattered severe thunderstorms are forecast across central and eastern North Dakota, as well as far northwest Minnesota Saturday (Slight Risk level 2 of 5). Damaging wind gusts are the primary threat. Elevated to critical fire weather conditions will persist through the weekend across the Western U.S. Isolated dry thunderstorms could lead to new fire starts over portions of the northern Rockies. Read More >
Biggest takeaway:
Most freezing rain storms create transportation issues and slip & fall issues. The true ice storms with large accumulations (>1") of glazing/freezing rain on trees and power lines, etc., are catastrophic dangers.
Warning/Trigger for Plan:
NWS Ice Storm Warning (moderate/major) – or – NWS Freezing Rain Advisory (minor).
Advance Notice/Time to Activate & Accomplish Your Planned Response:
* For Ice Storm Warnings, plan for 12-36 hours of advance notice before significant impact.
* Freezing Rain Advisories often have 6-18 hours of advance notice.
Frequency:
* Major ice storms are uncommon in our area, but happen 0-2 times/25 years on average in any one spot.
* Minor icing events are much more common and often happen a few times per winter.
How Accurate Warnings?
* Ice Storms are notoriously hard to forecast since small changes in temperature through the first few thousand feet of the atmosphere can make big changes to the impact of the storm. That said, Ice Storm Warnings should be taken very seriously since the threat can be so catastrophic.
* Freezing Rain Advisories should also garner substantial action since a small amount of icing can make on roads/parking lots/sidewalks can create substantial slip & fall dangers, as well as icy roads with many more accidents.