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Ramsey County Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan, 2018 Page | 79 them at risk. Because of the blinding potential of heavy snowstorms, drivers are also at risk of collisions with snowplows or other road traffic. Drivers and homeowners without emergency plans and kits are vulnerable to the life- threatening effects of heavy snowstorms such as power outages, cold weather, and inability to travel, communicate, obtain goods or reach their destinations. Heavy snow loads can cause structural damage, particularly in areas where there are no building codes or where residents live in manufactured home parks. The frequency of structural fires tends to increase during heavy snow events, primarily due to utility disruptions and the use of alternative heating methods by residents. Between the years of 1975 and 1991, there were 49 deaths associated with blizzards statewide, or an average of 3 deaths per year. Deaths attributable to blizzards have dropped in recent years, primarily due to increased weather awareness and warning capabilities across the state. The economic costs of winter storms are generally not recorded by the NCEI; however, a winter storm in November 2001 resulted in property damage of $500,000. Ice storms are described as occasions when damaging accumulations of ice occur due to freezing rain. The terms freezing rain and freezing drizzle warn the public that a coating of ice is expected on the ground and other exposed surfaces. Heavy accumulations of ice can bring down trees, electrical wires, telephone poles and lines and communication towers. Communications and power can be disrupted for days while utility companies work to repair extensive damage. Ice forming on exposed objects generally ranges from a thin glaze to coatings more than 1 inch thick. Even small accumulations of ice on sidewalks, streets and highways may cause extreme hazards to Ramsey County motorists and pedestrians. Sleet does not stick to trees and wires, but sleet of sufficient thickness does cause hazardous driving conditions. Heavy sleet is a relatively rare occurrence, defined as an accumulation of ice pellets covering the ground to a depth of ½-inch or more. Ice and sleet storms typically occur from October through April. The NWS notes that over 85% of ice storm-related deaths are the result of traffic accidents. The NCEI has recorded 1 ice storm in Ramsey County, in January of 1996. No deaths or injuries were reported. Observing winter storm watches and warnings and adequate preparation can lessen the impact of blizzards in Minnesota. Technical advances made in transportation, including safer vehicles and improved construction and maintenance of roads, have also contributed to the decline in deaths related to blizzards. Historical estimates of dollar losses associated with blizzards were not available for the purposes of this analysis. However, costs incurred by state and local government for snow removal associated with disaster declaration DR-1158 (January 1997) totaled over $27,300,000 dollars. Blizzards Figure 20. Armistice Day Blizzard, 1940