CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) - Cedar Rapids braced for significant freezing rain starting Friday night, with the National Weather Service issuing an Ice Storm Warning for parts of eastern Iowa. This situation has prompted local weather authorities to warn residents about hazardous travel conditions expected to continue through Saturday morning.
According to forecasts, freezing rain will cover the area after midnight, impacting roads and travel with icy conditions. The weather is expected to worsen before it improves, with freezing temperatures and winds forecasted to make the situation more precarious.
The conditions have already created concern among local authorities, with ice accumulation potentially reaching up to 0.25 inches. "This type of setup creates the risk for freezing rain, and it's particularly serious between Highway 30 and Highway 20," said local meteorologists.
Travelers are urged to stay off the roads if possible. The advisory characterizes the impending storm as capable of creating dangerous conditions starting late Friday. The heavy winds may exacerbate the ice's impact, posing risks to vehicles and pedestrians.
Local power companies are already on high alert for potential outages. MidAmerican Energy is preparing to deploy line crews if necessary. "The weight of the ice, coupled with the wind, could create dangerous conditions for power lines," explained Geoff Greenwood of MidAmerican Energy. Companies have positioned tree crews on standby, as downed trees can complicate restoration efforts. Safety is their foremost priority.
Alliant Energy has adopted similar strategies. "We monitor weather conditions very closely because the safety of our employees and our customers is extremely important," stated Melissa McCarville of Alliant Energy. Customers are reminded to steer clear of any downed power lines, which could remain energized even after falling.
The Cedar Rapids Public Works Department is also responding proactively to the forecast challenges, with street crews out applying brine treatments to over 1,400 lane miles of road since Thursday. Street Superintendent Brian McLeod noted the careful approach necessary for preparing the roads. "When there’s icy conditions, it’s dangerous anywhere," he mentioned, emphasizing the necessity for public patience as crews manage and clear the roads.
"If you don’t have to go out, please don’t," McLeod advised, explaining how vehicles can more easily lose control on slick surfaces. Public Works plans to deploy salt treatments as the storm progresses, but with precipitation expected to wash away brine, the initial road coverage may struggle under heavy rain conditions.
Hardware stores reported high sales of winter supplies, particularly ice melt, reflecting the public's preparations for this challenging weather. Phil Cronin, the manager at True Value hardware, noted, "Getting your ice melt down early will make it easier to shovel later." Stores are seeing more customers preparing for icy conditions.
Healthcare professionals are also bracing for the effect of the storm. Dr. William McDowell at UnityPoint Health cautioned against the dangers of icy sidewalks. "During ice storms, we see an uptick of patients due to falls. It’s important to be careful as you take your first steps out on the ice," he remarked. The potential for serious injuries increases substantially when icy conditions hit.
Residents are advised to be cautious not only outside but also as they prepare their homes for the storm. Keeping emergency supplies on hand, including food, medications, and blankets, is recommended, alongside ensuring vehicles are stocked with survival kits.
The weather is expected to improve by Saturday evening as warmer air moves north, transitioning conditions from freezing rain to rain over the course of the day. Some areas could see warmer temperatures exceeding 32 degrees by mid-morning, allowing conditions to clear by afternoon.
Still, icy patches may linger, particularly across northern regions where colder air persists. This will likely extend the period of hazardous travel over these areas. "Areas north of Highway 20 will hold on to ice longer, leading to challenges throughout Saturday evening," noted weather reports.
Looking beyond the immediate storm, meteorologists predict fluctuated temperatures and potential for more precipitation next week, though it should not carry the same icy danger as the current storm. Following this system, the forecast suggests highs might reach the upper 30s and low 40s, providing some relief.
Community members are encouraged to stay updated on conditions through resources like the KCRG First Alert Weather App, which offers real-time alerts and safety information. With unpredictable weather patterns, this preparedness can make all the difference.
Safety agencies and weather services continue to closely monitor the situation, providing timely updates as they happen. Residents are appealed to remain vigilant as the ice storm approaches, prioritizing safety during this harsh winter weather.
