The first major snowstorm of the season is set to impact New York and Michigan, bringing potential travel disruptions and affecting weekend football games. In New York, towns along lakes Erie and Ontario are bracing for significant snowfall during a busy holiday period, while Michigan’s Upper Peninsula faces similar weather challenges.
The National Weather Service forecasts heavy lake-effect snow to continue in northern Michigan into the weekend, with some areas in the Upper Peninsula expecting up to 3 feet of snow. Meteorologist Lily Chapman noted that the snowfall could persist from Sunday night through Monday, posing a challenge for residents and travelers alike.
In New York, meteorologists warn of 4 to 6 feet of snow in Watertown and surrounding areas east of Lake Ontario. Meanwhile, regions along Lake Erie, including areas south of Buffalo, could see 2 to 3 feet of snow. These lake-effect bands are notorious for delivering heavy snowfall, with rates of 2 to 4 inches per hour.
William Geary, Erie County Public Works Commissioner, explained the intensity of these events, attributing it to warmer-than-usual lake temperatures, which are about six degrees higher than average for this time of year. This unusual weather pattern has led New York Governor Kathy Hochul to declare a disaster emergency, enabling state agencies to mobilize resources effectively.
Travel conditions rapidly deteriorated on Friday, resulting in closures on Interstate 90, and restrictions were placed on tandem and commercial vehicles along Interstate 86 and state Route 219. Gregory Butcher, Erie County’s deputy director for preparedness and homeland security, reported numerous vehicles going off the road and stated that ATVs and snowmobiles were positioned to assist first responders if needed.
In anticipation of the snow, the Buffalo Bills called for volunteers to help clear Highmark Stadium, where more than 2 feet of snow could accumulate before their game against the San Francisco 49ers. This follows last year’s major lake-effect storm, which led to the rescheduling of a home playoff game against Pittsburgh.
In Michigan, parts of the Upper Peninsula were already covered in over a foot of snow by Friday afternoon. Meteorologist Joe DeLizio emphasized caution on the roads due to low visibility, although no major accidents were reported at the time.
Lake-effect snow results from the interaction of warmer, moist air from the lakes with cold, dry air overhead. This phenomenon is particularly severe when lake temperatures are higher than usual, as seen this year.
As the storm progresses, authorities continue to advise caution for those traveling or engaging in outdoor activities in the affected regions. The situation remains fluid, with weather conditions subject to rapid change.
As New York and Michigan face significant lake-effect snow, residents and travelers should prepare for potential disruptions. Authorities are coordinating efforts to manage the situation, emphasizing the importance of caution during this weather event. With weather patterns influenced by unusual lake temperatures, further snowfalls could be on the horizon.
Source: APNews
