Midwest Snowstorm Paralyzes Travel, Snarls Highways and Cancels Flights

A powerful winter storm slammed the Midwest and Great Lakes this weekend. It dumped heavy snow from Iowa to Michigan. Travel chaos ensued with hundreds of flights canceled and major highways shut down.The storm arrived on Saturday, disrupting Thanksgiving weekend travel for thousands. Northern Iowa saw over eight inches of snow, according to the Associated Press.

Widespread Travel Disruption and Accidents

Airports faced massive delays and cancellations. Chicago O’Hare International Airport was hit particularly hard. Over 900 flights to and from the city’s airports were canceled on Saturday alone.The Federal Aviation Administration issued a ground stop for the region. Conditions remained treacherous into Sunday. Road travel was equally dangerous. A major crash involved at least 45 vehicles on Interstate 70 in Indiana.The westbound lanes were closed for hours. Indiana State Police reported no serious injuries from the multi-vehicle pileup. Officials worked for hours to clear the wreckage and reopen the vital interstate

Extended Forecast and Regional Impacts

The severe weather continued into Sunday. Heavy snow and strong winds created near-whiteout conditions in many areas. The National Weather Service maintained winter storm and blizzard warnings across several states.The Upper Midwest faced an additional 8 to 14 inches of snow. Southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois remained under winter storm warnings. Roads along I-80 and I-94 were especially slick and hazardous for drivers.In Michigan, blizzard warnings were in effect. Parts of the Lower Peninsula were forecast to receive one to two feet of snow. Gusty winds threatened to cause power outages and worsen travel misery.

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The relentless Midwest snowstorm has turned holiday travel into a dangerous ordeal. Officials urge residents to avoid any non-essential travel until the severe weather passes and conditions improve.

Info at your fingertips

Which airports are most affected by the snowstorm?

Chicago O’Hare and Minneapolis-St. Paul International airports have experienced the most significant disruptions. Hundreds of flights have been canceled, causing major delays for travelers.

What is the forecast for Sunday travel?

Heavy snow and gusty winds will continue to create dangerous travel conditions. Drivers should expect whiteout conditions and extremely slick roads across the region.

How much snow has fallen so far?

Northern Iowa recorded more than eight inches of snow by Saturday morning. Some areas in Michigan and Wisconsin are expecting total accumulations of one to two feet.

Are there any road closures reported?

Yes, Interstate 70 near Terre Haute, Indiana, was closed due to a major multi-vehicle crash. Numerous other highways across the Midwest are experiencing significant delays and hazardous conditions.

When is the storm expected to end?

Snow is forecast to taper off by Sunday afternoon in the Upper Midwest. However, lake-effect snow downwind of the Great Lakes may continue into Monday, prolonging the impacts.