Lebanon, New Hampshire – Travelers returning home after the Thanksgiving holiday weekend may encounter severe weather conditions and travel disruptions. An arctic blast is forecasted to bring the coldest air since last winter to the Eastern parts of the country, with temperatures dropping significantly. The National Weather Service issued warnings of frigid temperatures in the Northern Plains, reaching single digits and teens.
In the Northeast, temperatures are expected to range from 30 to 40 degrees, while the Midwest anticipates temperatures in the 20s and 30s. Wind chills are projected to plummet below zero in the upper Midwest and Northern Plains, with some areas experiencing wind chills below -15 degrees. This extreme cold front is predicted to linger over the weekend, creating hazardous conditions for travelers.
The combination of the Arctic blast and lake effect snow in the Northeast and Midwest regions is likely to lead to dangerous travel conditions and delays. Lake effect snow occurs when cold air moves over the warm waters of the Great Lakes, resulting in heavy snowfall rates of over 2 inches per hour. Additionally, Southern states are expected to experience subfreezing temperatures, posing risks to crops, sensitive vegetation, and outdoor plumbing.
In Buffalo, New York, weather officials cautioned against travel within areas affected by lake effect snow and urged residents to avoid unnecessary journeys. Some cities, including Watertown, are forecasted to receive up to 6 feet of snow due to the ongoing weather conditions. While precipitation is expected in southern Texas and Florida, the rest of the country should remain dry with normal or above-normal temperatures for this time of year.
Flight operations at Erie International Airport were disrupted by cancellations on Friday, with thousands of flights experiencing delays across the United States. Travel bans were implemented along certain roadways due to hazardous weather conditions, prompting Governor Kathy Hochul to advise residents to prepare for adverse effects. A public service campaign by the U.S Department of Homeland Security emphasized precautions for travelers navigating through heavy snowfall areas.
As the winter weather continues to impact travel across the nation, individuals are urged to exercise caution, stay informed on weather updates, and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during this challenging period.
