Cleanup efforts are in full swing in parts of the Great Lakes region following intense lake-effect snowstorms that brought over a foot of snow over the weekend. While the worst of the storms is subsiding, forecasters are cautioning residents to brace for another storm system that could bring additional snow later this week.
Many school districts in western Pennsylvania remained closed on Tuesday as the region grappled with the aftermath of several days of heavy snowfall. The impact of the lake-effect snow was felt across western New York, Ohio, and Michigan, with some areas receiving more than a foot of snow over the past five days. East of Lake Ontario, over 5 feet of snow had accumulated by Monday, as reported by the National Weather Service.
Authorities have reported significant progress in clearing roads and lifting travel restrictions by Tuesday morning. However, drivers are advised to exercise caution and reduce speed due to lingering hazardous conditions. A winter storm watch has been issued for parts of western Pennsylvania, with the potential for 3 to 9 inches of snowfall from late Wednesday through Thursday morning.
Tragically, the recent heavy snowfall has resulted in a series of fatal accidents in the region. In Iowa, three individuals lost their lives in a collision on Monday morning. The incident occurred when a driver attempted to pass a snowplow by crossing into the oncoming lane of traffic. The collision involved a 2002 Buick Park Avenue traveling southbound and a 2013 Nissan Rogue traveling northbound, resulting in fatal injuries to both drivers and a passenger in the Nissan. Another individual sustained injuries and was transported to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics for treatment.
