A dangerous calm is spreading across the Mid-Atlantic as freezing rain quietly transforms roads into sheets of ice. What looks wet is quickly becoming slick and unforgiving.

In Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania, ordinary activities now carry serious risk. A short drive, a walk outside, or a quick errand could suddenly turn hazardous.

Meteorologists warn the storm’s greatest threat is its subtlety. Ice is often invisible, creating nearly frictionless surfaces beneath tires and shoes.

Hilly and rural areas are especially vulnerable. A slight steering correction or a single misstep can send vehicles or pedestrians sliding out of control.

Power infrastructure is also under strain. Ice accumulation is weighing down trees and power lines, increasing the likelihood of outages.

Emergency crews are staging across the region, while flights are delayed or canceled. Officials stress that icy roads slow response times and complicate rescues.

Residents are urged to stay home, avoid unnecessary travel, and allow road and utility crews to work safely. Preparation, from stocked supplies to checking on neighbors, is critical.

As the storm eases by late Thursday, communities will face cleanup and repairs. The damage will reflect a storm that arrived quietly, then lingered with dangerous force.