The National Weather Service (NWS) in Paducah has issued an Ice Storm Warning that will be in effect from 2 a.m. Sunday to 6 a.m. Monday.
The NWS alert issued at 1:47 a.m. Saturday reads:
…ICE STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 2 AM SUNDAY TO 6 AM CST MONDAY…
* WHAT…Significant icing expected. Total snow and sleet
accumulations up to two inches and ice accumulations between one
quarter and three quarters of an inch.
* WHERE…Portions of southern Illinois, western Kentucky, and
southeast Missouri.
* WHEN…From 2 AM Sunday to 6 AM CST Monday.
* IMPACTS…Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will
likely become slick and hazardous. Significant ice accumulation on
power lines and tree limbs may cause widespread and long-lasting
power outages. Expect power outages and tree damage due to the
ice. Travel could be impossible. The hazardous conditions could
impact the Monday morning commute.
* ADDITIONAL DETAILS…An arctic blast will arrive Monday and last
through most of the week. Wind chill values will drop into the
single digits or below zero at times, which can be even more
dangerous with any long duration power outages.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
Travel is strongly discouraged. If you must travel, keep an extra
flashlight, food and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.
Prepare for possible power outages. The latest road conditions can
be obtained by visiting www.weather.gov/pah/roads
Persons should delay all travel if possible. If travel is absolutely
necessary, drive with extreme caution and be prepared for sudden
changes in visibility. Leave plenty of room between you and the
motorist ahead of you, and allow extra time to reach your
destination. Avoid sudden braking or acceleration, and be especially
cautious on hills or when making turns. Make sure your car is
winterized and in good working order.
Do not touch downed lines and report any power outages to your
electric company. Travel is highly discouraged due to slick roadways
and the possibility of downed trees and power lines.
