Gallery • 13 Photos

Chesterfield County residents woke up to familiar sight on the morning of Feb. 13th, with most neighborhoods in central Virginia being covered in white. While many assumed that a typical snow day was in store, what they had actually received was the first glittering ice in a pair of destructive ice storms. 

While the question of whether snow days can still be a day off from school in a time of distance learning was answered to the delight of many, some students had another question: what is an ice storm and how is it different from snow, flurries, sleet, or other winter weather? The answer is simply that a winter storm is characterized by freezing rain, sometimes referred to as a silver thaw. The National Weather Service defines an ice storm by the accumulation of at least “0.25-inch of ice on exposed surfaces.” The NWS had issued an Ice Storm Warning, tipping off vigilant residents to the impending difficulties a serious ice storm brings such as extended power outages. The warning was issued as this combination is very dangerous and the snow and ice already on trees make for very dangerous situations. Some Chesterfield residents have prepared accordingly.

When one Collington resident was asked about his response to destructive weather, he said “We’ve got our generator up and running in preparation for the storm.” Another resident of the neighborhood said he planned ahead when he heard the warning. “We went to the grocery store to stock up on some food before the storm hits. My cars have been in my garage. I only take them out when the sun is shining.”

Despite the NWS’s warning and widespread preparation, the families of many students across the county suffered extended power outages, many lasting days at a time. Senior Elijah Beaty said “Our power was out for three days, and since we didn’t want to sleep in 30 degree weather again for the fourth night, we got a hotel until it was fixed.”

Teachers at Manchester have adjusted their expectations in response to the severe weather. “I understand that it got pretty bad for some people this month,” said Mass Communications teacher Mr. Okamuro. “I lost power myself for about 16 hours, which made it pretty difficult to keep up with work. I understand that it might take students a little extra time to catch up after living like that for a few days.”