A significant snowstorm has swept across parts of New York, Pennsylvania, and Michigan during the busy U.S. holiday travel weekend, posing challenges for travelers returning from Thanksgiving.
The storm, coupled with a blast of Arctic air, brought unusually low temperatures, falling 10 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit below average in the Northern Plains, according to the National Weather Service. This cold front is expected to extend over the eastern third of the U.S., maintaining temperatures approximately 10 degrees below normal.
In response to this severe weather, certain areas in New York and Pennsylvania have declared emergencies. Officials have warned about the dangerous conditions that the snow and cold present, especially for those traveling. The National Weather Service emphasized that travel could be extremely challenging, particularly in regions where snow accumulates rapidly, reaching depths of multiple feet.
In New York, nearly 2 feet of snow fell in various regions, while 29 inches were recorded in Pennsylvania’s northwestern area. Governor Kathy Hochul of New York stated that preparations for the storm had been in place for days, involving snowplows, thousands of deployed workers, and consultations with utility providers. Emergency personnel were dispatched across the state to assist in maintaining travel safety during this busy holiday period.
Meanwhile, in Pennsylvania, Governor Josh Shapiro issued a disaster emergency proclamation, as certain areas received close to 2 feet of snow, with forecasts indicating more snowfall through Monday night. The Pennsylvania State Police reported nearly 200 incidents within a 24-hour period. Authorities had to close parts of I-90 and the New York Thruway due to hazardous driving conditions.
In Michigan, the storm’s impact was equally severe, with the Upper Peninsula experiencing significant lake-effect snow. Meteorologist Lily Chapman noted that some areas were buried under 2 feet of snow, with additional accumulation expected. Such events are not unusual in these regions that are accustomed to lake-effect snow, but the volume was substantial enough to set new records, such as in Gaylord, Michigan, where snowfall reached a new single-day record.
The harsh weather conditions not only disrupted travel plans but also presented challenges for local infrastructure. In Erie, Pennsylvania, limited travel access was announced, allowing only emergency responders and essential personnel to move freely until conditions improved. With roads impassable, the Holiday Inn near I-90 served as a refuge for stranded travelers.
The situation in Buffalo highlighted the efforts to manage snow at a local level. The Buffalo Bills sought help from local residents to clear snow from the stadium in preparation for the Sunday night football game against the San Francisco 49ers, offering $20 per hour plus food and hot drinks as compensation.
As the United States faces the brunt of the first major snowstorm of the season, travelers and local residents are experiencing significant disruptions. Authorities are urging caution and preparedness as they work to manage the aftermath of the snowfall and ensure safety during the continuation of the holiday season.
Source: News4jax
