In brief
Residents in several states are preparing for a major winter storm that threatens to bring heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain across a broad swath of the country. Hardware stores are seeing a surge in demand for ice-melting products and other essentials as citizens bracing for hazardous conditions take precautions. States are declaring emergencies, and transportation officials are treating roads to prevent ice buildup.
ATLANTA (AP) — With a major winter storm on the horizon, communities across the United States are bracing for heavy snowfall, sleet, and ice from New Mexico to New England. At local hardware stores, managers report unprecedented sales of salt used to melt ice, indicating that residents are preparing for the worst.
Lewis Pane, the store manager at Bates Ace Hardware in Atlanta, noted, We sold all 275 bags of ice melt we had in stock in one morning. Pane mentioned that he had received online orders before opening, indicating high demand for winter preparedness.
Meteorologists are predicting significant ice buildup, which could impact roads and power lines. With a slow warm-up expected after the storm hits, ice accumulation is likely to cause hazardous conditions and widespread power outages. The damage could rival that of a major hurricane, meteorologists warned.
In response, many local governments are taking precautions. The city of Carmel, Indiana, canceled its Winter Games due to fears of frostbite and hypothermia among participants. Meanwhile, transportation departments in various states are actively treating roads to prevent ice accumulation, but rain is complicating these efforts in some areas.
Residents like Wendy Chambers are stocking up on batteries and flashlights, while major events, like the Texas Rangers' Fan Fest, have been canceled to ensure public safety. In Arkansas, heavy snowfall is expected, prompting officials to treat roads with brine to prevent ice formation.
Governors in North and South Carolina have declared states of emergency, enabling local agencies to coordinate resources effectively during this challenging weather event. As winter storm preparations continue, communities are reminded to stay alert and prioritize safety during the upcoming storm.
