New York, Pennsylvania, and Great Lakes Region Travel Plans Disrupted by Winter Storm

In the Northeast and elsewhere, a powerful winter storm is disrupting travel as millions prepare to travel for the Thanksgiving holiday.

Major cities and rural areas alike are experiencing snow, rain, and gusty winds from the storm, which began forming over the Great Lakes.

Snowfall up to a foot high is expected in areas of Northeastern Pennsylvania, the Catskills in New York, and West Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania.

Particularly in Sullivan County, New York, and Pike County, Pennsylvania, heavy snow bands have brought rainfall rates of 1 to 3 inches per hour.

FOX Weather meteorologist Craig Herrera noted that the higher elevations, especially West Virginia and the Poconos, are seeing significant snowfall.

Warmer air and ground temperatures in the Northeast will result in light snow or rain at lower elevations.

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During one of the busiest travel periods of the year, the storm strikes. According to AAA, 80 million Americans will travel more than 50 miles for the holiday, causing highways and airports to be jammed.

TSA has also increased preparations for the busiest Thanksgiving travel period ever. Early reports indicate that commuters in cities like Chicago and Milwaukee are already experiencing delays and cancellations due to snow and reduced visibility.

Winter conditions are causing snowflakes to blanket Indianapolis’ roadways.

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West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, North Carolina, and Kentucky are among the states under winter storm warnings and advisories.

Binghamton, New York, issued a forecast warning of “high-impact winter storm” conditions, cautioning against dangerous snow accumulations and icy roads.

Snow is also intensifying in areas that previously experienced rain due to the storm system pulling in colder air from the north.

Chicago, Chicago, and Milwaukee, where commuters can see quarter-mile visibility during peak morning commutes, have already experienced heavy snowfalls.

New England’s drought-stricken parts are fortunate for the rain as it has provided relief from the storm’s snow and winds.

Meteorologist Stephen Morgan noted that precipitation along I-95 was significant. Despite the lack of a complete solution, it’s a start.”

Most of New England will see 1-2 inches of rain, with some locales seeing up to 3 inches. Wildfire risks are reduced and drought-stricken areas will have more water.

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Travelers are encouraged to stay informed about the storm and make preparations ahead of time as it continues its path. Here are some tips for navigating the holiday rush:

• Keep up-to-date on local weather alerts and forecasts.
• Make sure your car is winter-ready with proper tires, wiper fluid, and emergency supplies.
• Leaving ahead of the storm’s peak impact will help you avoid delays.
• Make sure you pack extra clothing, snacks, and a fully charged phone in case of delays.

TSA recommends arriving two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights to avoid long security lines and possible delays.

However, residual snow and rain may remain through the weekend as the storm system moves northeast. Thanksgiving holiday travel can be challenging, so travelers are advised to remain cautious.

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