FOX 21 News, KQDS-DT

DULUTH - Like with most winter storms, city crews are ready to hit the roads.

"We have all the trucks ready to go, all the materials in place so we'll be able to respond quickly when things change for the worse," said Kelly Fleissner, maintenance manager for the City of Duluth.

The worst is coming in the form of freezing rain.

Unlike snow, freezing rain is generally more unpredictable, where one or two degrees can make the difference between clear or slick pavement.

"If we hang around that freezing mark or just below that freezing mark then we can get more ice build–up and certainly that can cause all kinds of problems besides just the roads," said Fleissner.

If enough rain falls, it could also take a toll on the city's energy grid.

"Our system is built to withstand pretty extreme weather conditions and can really sustain about a half inch of radial ice before we'd start to see an issue on the system," said Amy Rutledge, manager of corporate communications at Minnesota Power.

While power companies know the strength of its own power lines, there are some things they can't predict.

"There may be some icing on trees and branches can certainly fall into lines and cause power outages," said Rutledge.

Minnesota Power has crews ready in the event of any power outages.

City crews will begin treating the roads at the first sign of deterioration.

It's also a good time for drivers to stay clear and let the crews do their job.

Fleissner said, "It's difficult for them to stop. They create a zone that's difficult for anyone to see around, so give them space and be patient and try not to tailgate and follow people too closely."