Thanksgiving Snowstorm Disrupts Travel with Heavy Snow and Dangerous Roads

A major winter storm slammed the Midwest and Great Lakes just after Thanksgiving. It dumped heavy snow on key travel routes. The National Weather Service issued widespread warnings. This caused significant delays and dangerous road conditions for millions returning home.

The storm system created a multi-state travel nightmare. It arrived during one of the busiest travel weekends of the year. Officials urged drivers to stay off the roads as visibility dropped and accidents mounted.

Thanksgiving Snowstorm Causes Widespread Travel Chaos

Winter storm warnings stretched from Montana to Ohio. The National Weather Service warned of snow rates exceeding one inch per hour. This led to rapidly accumulating snow and whiteout conditions in some areas.

Northern Iowa saw over eight inches of accumulation. Chicago, Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Michigan expected similar totals. Airports in Chicago and St. Louis reported average delays of one hour, according to FlightAware.

The hazardous roads resulted in major accidents. A crash involving at least 20 vehicles shut down westbound Interstate 70 in Indiana. Indiana State Police reported the closure would last for hours. No injuries were immediately reported from that incident.

Officials Urge Caution as Second Storm Looms

The immediate impact was severe, but forecasters warned of more to come. Another winter storm is likely to hit early next week. This new system threatens the Northeast with freezing rain and heavy snow.

The timing continues to challenge travelers. The initial storm also brought thunderstorms to the South. This created a broad spectrum of severe weather across the country.

The combined effect of these storms means prolonged travel difficulties. Road crews are struggling to keep up with the snowfall. Air travel will likely see continuing delays and cancellations into the new week.

The Thanksgiving snowstorm delivered a harsh reminder of winter’s power. It severely disrupted one of the year’s busiest travel periods. Travelers should remain vigilant as a second storm system now threatens the Northeast.

Thought you’d like to know-

Which states were most affected by the Thanksgiving snowstorm?

The storm heavily impacted the Midwest and Great Lakes. Key states included Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Michigan. These areas saw significant snowfall and dangerous travel conditions.

How much snow did the storm leave behind?

Northern Iowa received more than eight inches of snow. Similar amounts were forecast for Chicago and surrounding states. Snowfall rates reached over one inch per hour in some locations.

Were there any major road closures?

Yes, a major crash closed westbound Interstate 70 in Indiana. The incident involved at least 20 vehicles. Police estimated the highway would be closed for six hours.

How did the storm impact air travel?

Airports in Chicago and St. Louis experienced significant delays. FlightAware reported average delays of about one hour. The disruptions occurred on one of the busiest travel days of the year.

Is another winter storm expected?

Yes, forecasters predict another storm for early next week. It is expected to bring freezing rain and ice to the Appalachians. The interior Northeast could see moderate to heavy snow.