Yesterday I drove from Black Cat down to Rochester and found the first evidence of an ice storm (ice still on trees) at Weirs Beach. It got progressively worse as I continued southward. It looked "average" in Weirs Beach, and in the Rochester area it was devastating, with lots of lines still down.
There are many, many trees and branches down in that area. Some are still hanging on wires. Yesterday there were even some traffic lights at intersections still without power... those usually take first priority, which should tell you something.
Today it is getting windy ahead of a cold front. Winds are increasing at
Black Cat now, and are already touching 30 mph. These winds are from the south and are bringing up warm air. Temps are approaching 50 here now, and are near 60 in the southern part of the state.
The ice will fall off the trees rapidly today. This sudden change in weight and balance could destabilize some hanging tree branches. Injuries and power outages are possible today as a result... be ready just in case.
Winds will continue to gust out of the south or southwest, reaching 30-35 mph in some places this afternoon, and will shift to the northwest as the front passes. The wind shift could also help destabilize many hanging tree branches.
Watch out when driving or walking under trees, and be prepared for a possible power outage.