Ice Storms
Areas of the Central and Eastern United States are susceptible to ice storms, including West Virginia. Ice storms are a type of winter storm that is caused by freezing rain. As snow falls, it encounters a warm layer of air in the middle of the atmosphere that turns it to rain. Before the rain hits the ground or the surface of an object, it encounters a very shallow layer of cold air that causes the rain to freeze on the cold exposed surfaces. The ice accumulates on trees, power lines, bridges, and roadways, causing significant damage and dangerous driving conditions.
Source: NOAA NCDC
Did You Know?
One of the most storms in West Virginia history occurred in February 2003. Ice from freezing rain accumulated 1 to 3 inches on power lines and trees. The precipitation then ended as snow on the 17th. Power outages were widespread and lasted for more than three days. The storm also caused the flooding rains in the southwestern part of the state, the heavy snow in the north, and even a prolonged period of sleet to some counties.