A powerful snowstorm hit the U.S. during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, severely disrupting travel and causing chaos across the Great Lakes, Midwest, and Plains regions. Record snowfall, icy roads, and plummeting temperatures created hazardous conditions, stranding travelers and prompting emergency declarations in affected areas.
Record Snowfall and Widespread Disruptions
The storm, one of the season’s first major snow events, brought heavy snow to parts of New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Michigan. The Great Lakes region, particularly areas east of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, saw up to 24 inches of snow, with more accumulation expected throughout the weekend. By Sunday, snowfall rates reached 3 to 4 inches per hour in parts of Jefferson County, New York, creating near-zero visibility and treacherous driving conditions.
In Michigan, parts of the state saw nearly 2 feet of snow, while Pennsylvania’s northwestern regions recorded 29 inches. The storm continued into the weekend, with Cleveland and surrounding areas expecting an additional 6 to 18 inches by Tuesday. These extreme conditions disrupted not only road travel but also public transport, as airports faced delays and cancellations, further complicating the post-Thanksgiving travel rush.
Emergency Declarations and Dangerous Conditions
In response to the intense snowfall, several states issued emergency declarations. New York and Pennsylvania declared disaster emergencies, urging residents and holiday travelers to stay off the roads as snowplows and utility crews worked to clear blocked routes. In Erie County, Pennsylvania, where nearly 2 feet of snow had already fallen, travelers found themselves stranded due to impassable roads. A Holiday Inn near Interstate 90 offered shelter to displaced travelers, who were given blankets and access to conference rooms.
The National Weather Service issued cold weather advisories across the Northern Plains, with temperatures dropping 10 to 20 degrees below normal. North Dakota experienced bitterly cold conditions, while the storm’s icy air spread eastward, affecting the eastern U.S. through the following days.
Community Efforts Amid the Snowstorm
The storm not only impacted travelers but also affected local communities. In Buffalo, New York, the NFL’s Buffalo Bills enlisted snow shovelers to clear Highmark Stadium in preparation for their game against the San Francisco 49ers. The team offered $20 per hour, along with food and hot beverages, to volunteers.
In Gaylord, Michigan, a ski resort town, the storm set a new single-day snowfall record, with 24.8 inches of snow. This surpassed the previous record of 17 inches, set back in March 1942. Local authorities and community members rallied to support those affected by the storm, ensuring vital resources and shelter for those stranded.
Conclusion: A Stark Reminder of Winter’s Challenges
This early-season snowstorm is a reminder of the unpredictable and sometimes severe weather conditions that can arise in the U.S. during the winter months. With record snowfall and hazardous road conditions, the storm underscored the importance of preparedness for both residents and travelers. As the weather continued to impact areas through the week, authorities urged caution and advised travelers to delay trips if possible.
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