A winter storm is en route to the Midwest and Northeast, raising concerns about possible travel disruptions. This latest weather system follows a significant post-Thanksgiving storm that had already impacted Chicago and several surrounding states with record snowfalls and widespread flight cancellations.
Winter Storm Overview
The new storm began developing over the western United States, fueled by a powerful low-pressure system. This system is channeling Pacific moisture into the Northwest, Great Basin, and Rockies. As it moves eastward, it’s expected to intensify rapidly.
Forecasted Precipitation
- Additional snow and ice are predicted for regions still recovering from prior storms.
- Major cities forecasted to receive more snowfall include Des Moines, St. Louis, and Chicago.
- Rain and thunderstorms may affect areas in Texas and the Deep South.
Impact on Travel
As the weather system moves east, it will bring widespread rain to the Mid-Atlantic and Southeastern United States. Flash flooding is a possibility in some southern areas, while northern regions may experience snow, especially in Appalachia and the interior Northeast. Freezing rain is also a concern, particularly in higher elevations of Virginia and North Carolina.
Travel Challenges on the I-95 Corridor
Forecast models indicate potential snow in major cities like New York, Philadelphia, Boston, and Washington, D.C. However, the transition from snow to rain will be crucial and depends on the storm’s tracking. This uncertainty hampers travelers’ ability to make concrete plans.
Cold Weather Conditions
As the storm exits, a fresh wave of Arctic air will sweep across the central and eastern U.S., resulting in one of the coldest weeks of the season. Many locations are expected to experience temperatures in the teens and twenties.
Record Low Temperatures
- Thursday and Friday may bring daily record low temperatures across the Plains, Midwest, and interior Northeast.
- The Arctic air surge is indicative of a possible upcoming polar vortex disruption, signaling more cold weather in December.
Travelers in the Midwest and Northeast are advised to stay updated on weather forecasts as important travel dates approach. The winter storm is poised to create additional challenges during the busy holiday season.
