Post-Thanksgiving travel chaos: Heavy snow and arctic cold grip Great Lakes region

Post-Thanksgiving travel is facing significant disruptions across parts of the Great Lakes region as heavy lake-effect snow and freezing temperatures create hazardous conditions.

Millions are bracing for frigid weather, with nearly 70% of the continental U.S. expected to experience temperatures below 32°F in the coming days.

Treacherous Conditions Across New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio

Residents in parts of New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio endured bitterly cold temperatures and heavy snowfall over the weekend. Some areas recorded several feet of snow, with more expected through Monday. Cities such as New York, Chicago, Atlanta, Minneapolis, and Cincinnati are forecasted to see below-average temperatures all week.

Over four million people remain under lake-effect snow warnings, with the hardest-hit areas, including Erie County, New York, and Ashtabula County, Ohio, reporting snowfall totals up to 40 inches. In some areas, an additional 1 to 2 feet of snow is forecast through Tuesday morning.

Severe Impact on Infrastructure and Communities

The flooding of the River Thames in Ohio caused significant damage, leaving roads submerged under five feet of water. Erie County in New York is among 11 counties under a state of emergency declared by Governor Kathy Hochul. National Guard members have been deployed to assist with storm operations, and shelters have been opened for those in need.

In Erie, Pennsylvania, residents were seen clearing massive piles of snow from driveways and cars buried under feet of snow. Local schools and government offices were closed, and many private hospitals shut their doors, adding to the strain on the community.

Whiteout Conditions and Dangerous Travel

The National Weather Service has warned that travel in affected areas is “very difficult to impossible.” Whiteout conditions have made driving treacherous, with officials urging residents to stay off the roads. Highway traffic cameras in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York showed snow-covered highways, with plows working tirelessly to clear pathways.

Buffalo’s Highmark Stadium, where the Bills are set to face the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday night, was blanketed in snow. The Bills have called on fans to help clear the field, though local officials have stated that the snowy conditions are not expected to impact the game.

Arctic Chill Sweeps Across the East

An outbreak of Arctic air diving southward from Canada is driving temperatures 15–25°F below average across much of the eastern U.S. High temperatures are expected to remain significantly below average Sunday and Monday, stretching from the Northern Plains to the East Coast.

More Snow in the Forecast

The lake-effect snow, driven by cold air passing over the warm waters of the Great Lakes, is expected to continue through Monday. Watertown, New York, and areas downwind of Lakes Erie and Ontario could see up to 2 additional feet of snow.

With holiday travel already challenging, residents and travelers alike are advised to prepare for delays, stay indoors where possible, and exercise extreme caution on the roads. The winter weather is a stark reminder of the power and unpredictability of nature as the season begins in earnest.