Ice storm

Ice Storm by NOAA

Precipitation by type

A street in Elora, Ontario, after an ice storm, early 1900s

File:Trees with Ice.JPG

Trees with Ice

Frozen pinecone

Ice Storm

An ice storm is a type of winter storm characterized by the accumulation of freezing rain, which coats surfaces with ice. These storms can cause significant damage to trees, power lines, and structures, and can lead to hazardous travel conditions. Ice storms are most common in certain regions of North America, particularly in the northeastern United States and southeastern Canada, but they can occur anywhere where the atmospheric conditions align for their formation.

Formation

The formation of an ice storm is a complex process that involves specific atmospheric conditions. It occurs when a layer of warm air is sandwiched between two layers of cold air. Precipitation begins in the warm air layer as rain and then falls into the cold air layer near the surface, freezing upon contact with objects that are at or below 0°C. This process creates a glaze of ice that can accumulate to several inches in thickness.

Impacts

The impacts of ice storms can be severe and multifaceted. The weight of the ice can cause trees and branches to break, leading to power outages when they fall on power lines. The ice can also make roads and walkways extremely slippery, leading to accidents and injuries. In addition, the weight and pressure of the ice can cause structural damage to buildings and homes.

Economic and Environmental Effects

Economically, ice storms can lead to significant costs associated with cleanup, repairs, and lost business. Environmentally, the damage to trees and vegetation can have lasting effects on ecosystems. The removal of large amounts of tree cover can also increase the risk of other environmental issues, such as erosion.

Preparation and Response

Preparation for an ice storm involves several steps, including ensuring that emergency supplies are on hand, protecting pipes from freezing, and staying informed about the weather. Response efforts typically focus on restoring power, clearing roads, and providing assistance to those affected. Emergency management agencies and utility companies play key roles in these efforts.

Notable Ice Storms

Several notable ice storms have occurred in recent history, causing widespread damage and disruption. These include the Great Ice Storm of 1998 in eastern Canada and the northeastern United States, which resulted in billions of dollars in damages and left millions without power for days to weeks.

See Also

• Winter storm
• Freezing rain
• Emergency management
• Power outage

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