Janice R. Andrews
A rapidly-moving snowstorm has caused hazardous travel conditions across the northern Plains, Upper Midwest, and Great Lakes, resulting in significant disruptions. On Friday, Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport issued a ground stop due to heavy snow and ice, affecting flights during the peak holiday travel period.
Snowstorm Impacts Midwest
The storm, driven by an Alberta Clipper system, brought heavy snow and strong winds, with some areas of Minnesota and Wisconsin receiving up to 11 inches of snow. According to Fox Weather, numerous accidents were reported, with “hundreds” of vehicles involved. The National Weather Service (NWS) recorded snowfall totals exceeding 10 inches in several locations, and millions of people in 10 states from Minnesota to West Virginia were under winter storm warnings, watches, or advisories.
While the system is expected to weaken as it moves toward the Appalachians, areas such as West Virginia, western New York, and northern New England may still see 3 to 6 inches of snow, continuing to cause travel difficulties.
East Coast Braces for Arctic Cold
Meanwhile, an arctic air mass is set to bring freezing temperatures to the East Coast this weekend. The National Weather Service warns that daytime highs could be 15 to 20 degrees below normal in parts of the Northeast and mid-Atlantic on Saturday and Sunday. Wind chills may dip into the single digits in some areas of New England, adding to the cold.
Short-lived Cold Snap
Fortunately, the cold spell is expected to be brief. The Climate Prediction Center anticipates that above-average temperatures will return to much of the country by midweek. Apart from some rain and snow in the Pacific Northwest, no major weather hazards are forecast through Christmas Eve.
Record-Breaking Holiday Travel
As conditions improve, millions of Americans are preparing for a record-breaking travel period. AAA forecasts 119.3 million people will travel 50 miles or more between Dec. 21 and Jan. 1, surpassing the previous record set in 2019. This represents an additional 3 million travelers compared to last year, signaling a strong recovery in travel activity.
“With Christmas falling on a Wednesday, we expect high travel volumes the weekends before and after the holiday,” said AAA Travel Vice President Stacey Barber.
Summary
- A powerful snowstorm is disrupting travel in the Midwest, with a ground stop at Chicago’s O’Hare and up to 11 inches of snow reported in parts of Minnesota and Wisconsin.
- An arctic blast will bring freezing temperatures to the East Coast this weekend, but warmer weather is expected to return next week.
- AAA forecasts a record number of holiday travelers, underscoring the importance of good weather for safe travel.
Stay informed as the storm continues and plan your holiday travels accordingly.
