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Beware Falling Ice! Pittsburgh Thaws, Dangers Emerge
11 Feb
Summary
- Warming temperatures cause dangerous ice dams to break free.
- Falling ice has destroyed a car's back window in Lawrenceville.
- Ice-related injuries kill at least 15 people annually in the U.S.
The Pittsburgh region is experiencing a thaw, but this warming trend brings new and potentially dangerous weather-related issues. Large ice dams are beginning to detach, creating hazards for both property and people. This melt has already caused a car in Lawrenceville to sustain severe damage, with its rear window destroyed by a falling icicle.
Residents are reporting substantial ice formations, some weighing an estimated 100 pounds, that are dislodging gutters, downspouts, and even wires. The Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire has been alerted to these risks, as pedestrians, often distracted, may not notice the falling ice. National statistics from the CDC indicate that ice-related injuries lead to approximately 15 fatalities annually in the U.S., with many more suffering serious harm.
The dangers extend beyond falling ice. Significant melts can lead to foundation damage as water seeps into masonry. When temperatures drop again, this water expands, potentially cracking walls and foundations. Homeowners can mitigate this by clearing snow and ice from exterior walls, or by hiring professional services for snow and ice removal from roofs.
