As winter still maintains its frosty grip on the U.S., the East Coast is preparing for a powerful storm that will deliver heavy snow, icy conditions, and dangerously low temperatures. The new cold front is expected to affect a wide stretch of states, from the Northeast across the Mid-Atlantic and into sections of the Southeast, and deliver a variety of weather hazards. Following on the heels of already having endured a difficult winter, this storm will deliver even more difficult conditions and pose severe challenges to both residents and tourists. The combination of an extreme winter atmosphere and severe weather patterns heightens the risks for everyone involved.
What’s Happening?
A powerful low-pressure system is moving across the country and will likely drop snow, sleet, and cold temperatures on most of the East Coast. Areas like New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and the New England region will see heavy snow, with some areas potentially seeing a few inches. But more southern regions could see a combination of rain, sleet, and freezing rain, which could lead to dangerous ice accumulation. Temperatures will plummet during the duration of the storm, introducing the kind of cold that can make severe hazards if not treated properly.
The worst of this storm is actually not even the snow but rather the biting cold that will be trailing behind it. Arctic air is to sweep in, dropping temperatures into the single digits or lower in some areas. Even wind chill is to be brutal, with it feeling like much lower than freezing, which can lead to frostbite in a matter of minutes if one is not cautious.
What to Expect:
Heavy Snow: New York City, Boston, and Philadelphia will see multiple inches of snow, with areas further inland and at higher elevations likely to see more. Occasionally, the snow will be heavy enough that it will result in low visibility and dangerous driving conditions. Slippery roads, low traction, and the likelihood of accidents are to be anticipated by drivers.
Bitter Cold Temperatures: The arctic cold wave will lower temperatures into a deep freeze, with temperatures in most cities hitting their season’s low so far. With wind chill, it may even be even colder, jeopardizing the conditions for people who don’t have adequate winter clothing. Frostbite can occur in minutes for anyone outside in some areas.
Travel Disruptions: As this storm increases, it will inevitably cause disruption to road and air travel. Road travel will be made treacherous by snow and icy roads, and the combination of adverse weather and poor visibility will inevitably cause accidents. Travelers can expect delayed flights at airports since multiple flights will be delayed or canceled owing to snow and icy conditions. Public transport also may be delayed, so best to plan ahead and allow more time for traveling.
Power Outages: The heavy snow and strong winds can break limbs from trees and power lines, resulting in widespread power outages. Thousands of individuals in the path of the storm may lose electricity, and it may be down for hours or even days in certain areas. It is imperative to prepare in advance with a power outage kit of flashlights, batteries, bottled water, and canned foods.
What’s at Stake?
Aside from the disruption and danger of winter weather, the storm also threatens the public safety in a big way. The mixture of snow, ice, and extremely low temperatures is a recipe for possible health complications, especially to those who are exposed for an extended duration or who are not equipped to deal with the cold, making this an extreme winter scenario.
Frostbite is a dangerous condition. It can happen all too easily if skin is exposed to cold, and in the worst cases, can cause permanent damage to tissue. Hypothermia is also a danger if your body loses heat faster than it can produce it. Both are dangers and must be treated by a doctor as soon as possible.
Safety Measures During Blizzards and Severe Weather
In order to be safe during this severe winter storm, the following must be heeded:
Dress in Layers: Wear multiple layers of thermals to keep the heat in. Cover all exposed skin, including your face, with scarves and hats and insulated gloves and boots to prevent your hands and feet from freezing.
Keep Your Car Winter-Ready: If you have to travel, ensure your car is winter-ready. Maintain your gas tank half full to avoid freezing the lines, and have an emergency kit in your vehicle with blankets, spare clothes, snacks, and a flashlight.
Be Ready for Blackouts: Stock up on water, canned goods, and other supplies that can be utilized for a few days. Have blankets, hand warmers, and backup light sources like candles or flashlights in case of a blackout.
Stay Home if You Can: In case you can manage, stay indoors at the height of the storm. If you must travel, look up the road conditions and set your trip accordingly. Take an extra phone with a full charge and let others know where you are going and when you expect to arrive.
Check on Vulnerable Neighbors: Neighbors who are ill or elderly might struggle with extreme weather, so stop by to ensure they are okay and have adequate supplies to weather the storm.
In Conclusion As the East Coast gets ready for this extreme winter slam, we implore you: be prepared, plan ahead. With the threat of heavy snow, frozen roads, and extremely cold weather, the damage is likely to be severe. Armed with information, preparedness, and a keen sense of caution, you can minimize the hazards and weather out the storm with minimal loss of comfort. Keep warm, keep safe, and be ready.
