Bracing for a Wintry Mix How to Prepare for Freezing Rain and Snow this Weekend

edu.plus.weatherray Rome
49 minutes ago
3 min read

Winter weather is arriving with a mix of freezing rain, sleet, and snow expected over the next several days. This kind of wintry mix can create hazardous conditions on roads and sidewalks, disrupt daily routines, and cause power outages. Preparing ahead can help you stay safe and comfortable as the weather changes. This post breaks down the forecast and offers practical tips to get ready for the freezing rain and snow expected this weekend.

Eye-level view of icy road with light snow accumulation — Icy road with light snow accumulation

Understanding the Forecast

The weather will start with freezing rain and sleet tonight, followed by a slight chance of freezing rain just after midnight. Temperatures will drop to around 27°F, with a chance of precipitation at 90%. Ice accumulation could reach just under 0.1 inch, while sleet may add up to half an inch. These conditions can make travel dangerous, especially on untreated surfaces.

Thursday will be mostly cloudy with a high near 40°F and light east winds. Thursday night brings a 30% chance of showers after 1 a.m., with temperatures around 31°F. Friday looks wet with showers all day and a high near 39°F. The chance of precipitation is 100%, so expect steady rain.

Friday night will transition to rain and snow showers before 4 a.m., then mainly snow showers with a low near 31°F. Saturday continues with a chance of snow showers in the morning, then mixed rain and snow showers, with highs near 36°F. The weekend will remain mostly cloudy with intermittent snow showers and lows dropping to the mid-20s.

Preparing Your Home for Ice and Snow

Winter weather can cause power outages and damage to your home if you are not prepared. Here are some steps to take before the freezing rain and snow arrive:

Inspect your roof and gutters to ensure they are clear of debris. Ice buildup can cause damage or leaks.
Stock up on essentials such as food, water, and medications in case travel becomes unsafe.
Check your heating system and have extra fuel or blankets ready.
Protect outdoor pipes by insulating them or letting faucets drip to prevent freezing.
Have a supply of ice melt or sand to treat walkways and prevent slips.

Staying Safe on the Roads

Freezing rain and sleet create slick surfaces that increase the risk of accidents. Follow these tips to stay safe if you must drive:

Avoid travel if possible during the peak freezing rain and sleet periods.
Drive slowly and increase following distance to allow more time to stop.
Use headlights and avoid sudden braking or sharp turns.
Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle with blankets, water, snacks, and a flashlight.
Clear all snow and ice from your vehicle before driving to maintain visibility.

Close-up of icy tree branches covered with sleet — Icy tree branches covered with sleet

What to Wear and How to Stay Comfortable

Dressing properly helps you stay warm and dry during freezing rain and snow. Consider these clothing tips:

Wear waterproof boots with good traction to prevent slips on ice.
Layer your clothing with moisture-wicking base layers, insulating middle layers, and waterproof outer layers.
Use hats, gloves, and scarves to protect extremities from cold.
Carry extra socks and gloves in case your current ones get wet.
Avoid cotton clothing as it retains moisture and chills the body.