Winter Storm Warnings Disrupt Travel Across 14 States with Heavy Snow

A major winter storm swept across the United States this week. It dumped heavy snow from the Midwest to New England. The system caused widespread travel chaos and prompted official warnings.

The National Weather Service issued winter storm warnings and advisories for 14 states. This fast-moving system combined two storms, creating hazardous conditions. Authorities reported hundreds of crashes and multiple school delays.

Midwest Hit Hardest with Deep Snow and Dangerous Roads

Minnesota faced the most severe impacts. Overnight snowfall led to extremely dangerous driving. State police logged over 550 crashes and spinouts.

At least one crash was fatal. Vergas, Minnesota, recorded 9 inches of snow. Other areas saw even higher totals, according to weather reports.

North Dakota saw 11 inches. Wyoming got 9.4 inches. Wisconsin received 7.5 inches. The heavy snow forced dozens of Minnesota school districts to delay opening.

Second Storm System Threatens Further Disruption East

The initial clipper system moved into the Interior Northeast. Another storm is following right behind it. This new system threatens more snow from Iowa to Kentucky.

Forecasts suggest up to a foot of snow for parts of Upstate New York. Northeast Ohio could see similar totals. The new storm may drop an additional 6 inches in some areas.

Travel delays are expected to continue. Winter weather advisories remain active in several states. These include Montana, the Dakotas, Michigan, and much of New England.

The widespread winter storm warnings highlight a volatile weather pattern. Residents in affected states should avoid unnecessary travel. Conditions are expected to remain difficult through the end of the week.

Info at your fingertips

Which states are under winter storm warnings?

Advisories cover 14 states. They include North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Montana, Wyoming, and several Northeast states like New York and Maine.

How much snow fell from this storm?

Snowfall totals varied widely. The highest reported was 11 inches in North Dakota. Many areas in the Midwest saw between 7 and 9 inches.

What has been the storm’s main impact?

The primary impact has been on travel and safety. Hundreds of crashes were reported, including one fatal incident. Many schools also delayed openings.

Is the winter weather over?

No, a second storm system is moving in. It is expected to bring more snow to the Midwest and could affect areas from Iowa to Kentucky with several more inches.

What is a winter weather advisory?

The NWS issues one when significant snow or sleet is expected. The threshold is typically 6 inches of snow in 12 hours. It signals potentially hazardous conditions.