Something completely unbelievable is going to happen in 11 U.S. states, and even meteorologists are having a hard time explaining the event. A giant winter storm is sweeping through the Heartland, and along with it, an unnatural and almost mythical sight: ice twisters. Picture the power of a tornado, but with snow and ice instead of rain and debris, tearing through towns in a cold rage. Sounds like science fiction, right? But meteorologists are cautioning that the convergence of blizzard-like weather, heavy winds, and unstable air can create these unusual vortexes. So, what exactly are ice twisters? How dangerous are they? And most importantly, how do you keep yourself safe? Here’s everything you want to know about this terrifying phenomenon.
What Are Ice Twisters, Anyway?
Ice twisters, technically referred to as “snowspouts”, are very rare tornado-like whirlwinds that occur during winter storms. While ordinary tornadoes are made up of rain, ice twisters are made up of ice, snow, and freezing air. Scientists indicate that severe weather is ideal for their occurrence.
Which States Are at Risk?
Blizzard alerts are already up in Nebraska, Kansas, and Colorado. Winter storm warnings go deeper into Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan. States a bit farther south, such as Missouri and Arkansas, may experience a combination of intense storms and snow. If you live in either of these states, it could be worth keeping the radio on.
The Perfect Storm for Ice Twisters
So why are ice twisters here now? A strong winter storm is moving across the area, with heavy snow, strong winds, and cold air. Meanwhile, warm, unstable air from the south is producing severe thunderstorms and even tornadoes. When these factors combine, they can form the icy whirlwinds called ice twisters.
How Dangerous Are Ice Twisters
Ice twisters are mysterious. Though not necessarily as brutal as a “normal” tornado, they can still be quite destructive. The worst dangers they create are poor visibility, freezing wind chill, loose debris and falling chunks of ice. If an ice twister moves in nearby, the best move is simply to stay indoors.
What Experts Are Saying
Meteorologists are calling this storm “highly unusual” due to the mix of extreme weather patterns. Experts are saying there’s still a lot to learn about these unusual storms, and they could come back. “We’re in uncharted territory,” says one weather expert. “It’s rare, but not impossible.”
Power Outages and Travel Chaos
Already, more than 140,000 individuals and homes in the Midwest and South have no power. Heavy snow and ice are taking down power lines, and high winds are flipping cars and shutting down roads. If you have to travel somewhere, reconsider, as conditions are rapidly becoming hazardous.
How to Stay Safe
If you’re in a blizzard area, don’t venture out, load up on supplies and water, and charge your cell phone. If you’re in a storm area, expect power loss and don’t drive. And if you hear that an ice twister is approaching your area? Stay inside and away from windows.
Could This Happen Again?
Ice twisters are such a rarity that they have rarely been officially documented. But with increasingly more cases of extreme weather, some scientists think we could begin to see more of them in the near future. It’s just another reminder that nature is an unpredictable package.
Social Media Goes Wild
As word of the ice twisters gets around, social media sensationalizes pictures and makes wild speculation. Some say they witnessed spinning ice columns, while others say it’s all hype. Either way, the storm is making headlines – and keeping meteorologists on their toes.
The Bottom Line
Whether or not ice twisters do touchdown, this storm is not to be taken lightly. Blizzard conditions, high winds, and severe thunderstorms are already wreaking havoc. Stay tuned, stay at home if possible, and don’t take any chances. The weather can be unpredictable, but your safety doesn’t have to be.
Explore more of our trending stories and hit Follow to keep them coming to your feed!
Don’t miss out on more stories like this! Hit the Follow button at the top of this article to stay updated with the latest news. Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!
