Post-Thanksgiving travel is expected to be hazardous in parts of the Great Lakes region due to heavy lake-effect snow, while frigid temperatures blanket a large portion of the United States. Residents in New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio have been grappling with low temperatures and significant snowfall, with nearly 70% of the continental US forecasted to experience temperatures below freezing in the coming days.
Cities such as New York City, Chicago, Atlanta, Minneapolis, and Cincinnati are bracing for below-average temperatures throughout the week. Approximately four million individuals are under lake-effect snow warnings, with heavy snow already impacting regions in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York state. These warnings are set to expire Sunday night through Monday.
In Ashtabula County, Ohio, a resident captured footage of a home being engulfed by heavy snow, with some areas experiencing up to 40 inches of snowfall. Amherst, New York, issued a code blue alert due to below-freezing temperatures, prompting authorities to offer shelter to those in need.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency for 11 counties, including Erie County, in response to the ongoing snowfall. The National Guard has been deployed to assist with storm operations in affected areas.
The Arctic chill sweeping southward from Canada is causing temperatures to plummet across the eastern US, with some regions expected to see temperatures 15 to 25 degrees below average. The combination of cold air and warm waters from the Great Lakes is fueling lake-effect snow, with additional snowfall predicted for parts of Pennsylvania, Ohio, and New York.
Residents in Erie, Pennsylvania, and Barnes Corners, New York, have already seen significant snow accumulation, with some areas receiving over 40 inches of snow. The National Weather Service has issued warnings urging motorists to avoid travel in affected regions due to treacherous driving conditions.
Despite the challenging weather conditions, residents are adapting by clearing snow from their properties and preparing for travel with emergency supplies. The Buffalo Bills are also making efforts to ensure their scheduled game proceeds as planned despite the snowy conditions.
As the lake-effect snow continues to impact the region, residents are advised to exercise caution and stay updated on weather alerts to ensure their safety during this winter weather event.
