UPDATE: A powerful winter storm has been officially declared, causing dangerous travel conditions across the United States this Thanksgiving weekend. From Montana to New York, severe snow, sleet, and ice threaten the roads, impacting millions of holiday travelers.
As travel picks up during one of the busiest weekends of the year, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports hazardous weather affecting nearly 42 million Americans. Social media is inundated with alarming videos showing cars spinning out of control, notably in St. Louis, Missouri, where witnesses report vehicles “spinning out left and right.”
The National Weather Service (NWS) has identified this winter storm as a significant weather event, extending over 1,200 miles across the northern United States. With an estimated 81.8 million people expected to travel 50 miles or more during the holiday period, the risk of accidents and delays is escalating.
As states declare snow emergencies, snow squalls are likely to create sudden whiteout conditions, particularly in the interior Northeast. The NWS warns of perilous travel conditions, especially in eastern Iowa and northwestern Illinois, where heavy snowfall is forecast from Friday afternoon into Saturday night.
Tragically, the pre-holiday weather has already claimed a life in Alden Township, Minnesota, where a 69-year-old man was killed by a falling tree due to strong winds. This incident underscores the severe risks posed by the storm.
The storm, which began in the Pacific Northwest, is expected to intensify as it moves eastward across the Midwest. By early Saturday morning, it will bring heavy snow, sleet, and icy conditions to central New York, with accumulations potentially reaching up to a foot. Areas in Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Michigan may exceed this total, triggering a ripple effect of delays at airports nationwide.
Meteorologists have highlighted the potential for significant snowfall in major travel hubs, with Chicago anticipating 8 to 12 inches of snow. Although the storm does not meet official blizzard criteria, many will experience conditions akin to a blizzard, with reduced visibility and harsh winds.
The NWS has issued critical alerts for moderate to heavy snow and strong winds from the Midwest through the western Great Lakes, warning travelers to remain vigilant. In addition, thunderstorms and heavy rain may lead to flash flooding in the western Gulf Coast.
As this winter storm creates life-threatening conditions across the nation, authorities urge travelers to rethink their plans and stay updated on weather developments. The situation remains fluid, and those on the roads should exercise extreme caution.
Stay tuned for ongoing updates as this storm continues to unfold, impacting travel plans for millions. The urgency of these developments cannot be overstated as we navigate one of the most treacherous travel weekends of the year.
