12 hours ago
Millions of holiday travellers are facing major disruptions as snowstorms create hazardous driving conditions and delays spread across airports nationwide.
Snow, ice and strong winds make for dangerous conditions in upper Midwest
UPDATED: Dec 21, 2024 23:19 IST
The weather may play spoilsport for millions of USA citizens as they prepare to travel during the holidays. Forecasters say that heavy snow, freezing temperatures, and robust winds may blanket parts of the United States and jeopardize their travel plans.
Winter Storms Cover the US
In the last 24 hours, 17 states have witnessed snowfall, with 18 inches reported in Montana. The northeast region is expecting gusty winds that will continue until Friday evening. Mild winds are being seen in various parts of the northern Rockies and high plains, including Montana, Wyoming, and Nebraska.
The Great Lakes region will experience lake-effect snow, which will cause travellers to be stuck on planes due to flight delays and hamper road travel near towns such as Buffalo and Cleveland. The Weather Service said nine states have been advised on winter weather conditions after forecasting up to five inches in some areas.
Travel disruptions expected
This year's Christmas season is expected to be one of the busiest in recent years. According to reports, 119 million Americans plan to travel at least 50 miles from their homes between Saturday and New Year’s Day. The American Automobile Association predicts that most travellers will be on roads, while air travel is also expected to increase. This increase in travel, coupled with severe weather, will probably cause delays and longer travel times.
Air blast to hit East Coast
Heavy doses of bitter air blast toward the eastern US over the weekend, dumping freezing temperatures in the Great Lakes and Northeast. The Southeast will be colder than average, with some readings dipping to the teens and 20s.
Atmospheric River to Impact California
California is preparing for the most substantial impact of atmospheric rivers that have hit the region this month. Massive storms are expected to bring heavy rainfall, snow, and gusty winds to the Pacific Northwest and Northern California, leading to hazardous conditions from floods and mudslides.
Nine states under winter weather warnings
With winter weather advisories set for nine states, many areas expect snow and ice to impact traffic this weekend severely. In some regions, seven inches of snow or more is predicted, plus a secondary risk of freezing rain. With hazardous road conditions anticipated all weekend, motorists should exercise caution.
Flight delays and cancellations across US
Air travel also did not escape the problem: Nearly 2,000 flights were already delayed, and over 100 had already been cancelled. Major airports, particularly Chicago O'Hare and Atlanta, are also affected, and more flight disruption is expected as the weather worsens. Travelers should know the status of flights they are taking before going to the airport.
Future Christmas travel and weather conditions
As Christmas approaches, meteorologists are monitoring the weather closely. Fresh snowfall is expected in 10 states on the holiday itself. Conditions may lift a little by Sunday for those traveling this week, but travelers need to stay prepared for ongoing winter weather that could affect travel and cause delays or disruptions.
Published By:
indiatodayglobal
Published On:
Dec 21, 2024
