When it comes to winter storms, ice can be particularly hazardous. Not only is freezing rain challenging to forecast, but ice storms can wreak havoc on electrical infrastructure and vegetation, knocking power out for weeks and leaving roadways impassible. Travel becomes dangerous if not impossible, with roads becoming ice rinks.

Forecasters say power cuts are likely and that vehicles could become stranded on roads as wintry conditions continue. Trains and flights could also be delayed or cancelled and rural communities could be cut off,