The National Weather Service (NWS) in St. Louis urges residents to prepare for freezing rain as part of Winter Weather Preparedness Week. Officials warn that freezing rain can create potentially hazardous conditions on Missouri’s roads, walkways, and power lines.
According to the NWS, freezing rain develops when supercooled rain falls on surfaces below freezing. The result is a thin, nearly invisible layer of ice that can make driving and walking treacherous. The agency cautions that freezing rain is frequently more harmful than snow because ice forms quickly and is difficult to detect until it’s too late.
Residents are advised to avoid driving if freezing rain is falling or has just ceased. Ice accumulation can also cause fallen branches and power lines, increasing the risk of outages and damage.
Meteorologists urge paying close attention to local forecasts this week, especially during the midnight and early morning hours when temperatures are lowest.
Safety Tips:
- Delay travel until temperatures rise above freezing.
- Watch for black ice on bridges and untreated roads.
- Be cautious of ice-covered sidewalks and steps.
This reminder comes as Missouri enters the peak of the winter weather season, when freezing rain and ice storms become increasingly likely throughout the state.