A significant winter storm has disrupted travel plans for millions of Americans following the Thanksgiving holiday. As travelers head home, hazardous conditions are impacting regions across the central and northern United States.
Storm Overview
The winter storm is forecasted to move from the central and northern Plains to the Midwest and Great Lakes. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), widespread heavy snowfall and treacherous travel conditions are expected throughout the weekend.
- Winter storm warnings and advisories are active from South Dakota to parts of Ohio.
- Some areas have already experienced snowfall exceeding 8 inches since Thursday.
- Snowfall rates above 1 inch per hour may contribute to total accumulations between 6 to 12 inches.
Travel Disruptions
The impacts of the storm were immediately felt at major airports. Over 800 flights were canceled at Chicago O’Hare International Airport on Saturday, while more than 500 flights experienced delays.
- About 82 million people were expected to travel at least 50 miles for the holiday.
- Approximately 6 million are anticipated to travel by air, according to AAA.
Road Safety Warnings
Car accidents related to the winter storm have also been reported. The Missouri State Highway Patrol is investigating numerous crashes in central Missouri.
Officials urge travelers to avoid roads during the storm. The Missouri Department of Transportation advised delaying travel until weather conditions improve.
Forecast and Future Storms
While the northern and central U.S. grapples with snow and ice, Texas and Louisiana may face heavy rainfall and potential flooding. Another storm system is set to develop on Monday, affecting the East Coast by Tuesday.
- Heavy snow is projected for the northern mid-Atlantic and New England regions, including Pennsylvania and Maine.
- Travel conditions will worsen on Tuesday due to widespread rainfall and accumulating snow in northern regions.
Aircraft Delays
Delays in air travel have been compounded by mandatory software upgrades for Airbus A320 aircraft. The Federal Aviation Administration issued an emergency directive requiring airlines to upgrade software before flying these aircraft again.
Airlines, including American and United, are actively working to minimize delays while conducting the necessary upgrades.
This combination of a winter storm and technical disruptions has led to a challenging travel experience for many, further complicating post-Thanksgiving journeys.
