A massive snowstorm has hit New York and the surrounding regions, causing widespread disruptions as it blankets cities along Lake Erie and much of the Great Lakes area. Authorities have declared a state of emergency as the first major snowfall of the season brings dangerous travel conditions, just in time for Thanksgiving travel.
Snow accumulations reached up to 60 cm in parts of New York, Ohio, and Michigan, with up to 73 cm recorded in the northwestern corner of Pennsylvania. The storm is causing severe travel disruptions, with treacherous conditions across the region. Local authorities are warning of dangerous travel for those trying to get home for Thanksgiving.
The National Weather Service issued dire warnings, emphasizing that travel will be exceptionally difficult and hazardous, particularly in areas where snow could accumulate several feet rapidly.
“Travel will be extremely difficult and dangerous this weekend, especially in areas where snow can pile up several feet very quickly,” said the National Weather Service.
Parts of I-90 in Pennsylvania were closed, and other western New York highways were also shut down due to the snowstorm. Arctic air currents brought temperatures more than 10 degrees below average in the Northern Plains, with freeze warnings issued for parts of North Dakota. The frigid conditions are expected to move eastward across the U.S. by Monday.
As the storm intensifies, authorities are urging travelers to stay off the roads if possible and to take extra precautions against the extreme cold and snow.
