Northeast Thanksgiving Winter Storm Snarls Travel Plans for Millions of Americans

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A powerful Thanksgiving winter storm is presently creating chaos for millions of travelers in the Northeast. Heavy snow, icy roads, and drenching rain have caused widespread disruptions, making it challenging for families returning from holiday gatherings. The storm has triggered winter weather warnings across the region, particularly affecting major highways, airports, and public transit systems.

Snow-Covered Highways Pose Major Risks

Heavy snow has blanketed interior regions such as the Catskills, Adirondacks, and Green and White Mountains. Snow accumulations have already reached 8 inches in Knox, New York, with forecasts expecting up to a foot in higher elevations. In valleys, accumulation remains lighter due to warmer surface temperatures, but icy conditions still make driving hazardous.

Major routes, including Interstates 87, 90, and 93, are particularly treacherous, with reduced visibility and slick roads causing delays. Interstate 380 in Pennsylvania reported heavy snow by Thursday morning, while other northern routes are experiencing icy patches that require extreme caution. Coastal areas, while spared from snow, are contending with torrential rain and flooding, adding further delays to already strained travel networks.

AAA has advised motorists to delay travel if possible. For those who must be on the road, keeping emergency supplies in the car is critical. Nearly 72 million Americans traveling by car this Thanksgiving face increased risks as the Thanksgiving winter storm intensifies.

Airports Experience Ripple Effects of Delays

Air travelers are also caught in the storm's grip. Boston Logan International Airport reported over 50 flight delays by mid-afternoon Thursday, while JFK International saw over 60. Philadelphia and Baltimore airports have experienced scattered cancellations, with numbers expected to rise as the storm progresses.

The TSA reported 2.7 million travelers passing through security checkpoints on Wednesday, with millions more expected over the holiday weekend. Delays at key hubs often create a ripple effect, with disruptions spreading to other regions. Travelers are urged to check flight statuses frequently and arrive at airports early to navigate the chaos caused by the Thanksgiving winter storm.

New England and Great Lakes Face Heavy Snowfall

Northern New England, including Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, is bracing for some of the storm's heaviest snowfall. By Friday morning, over a foot of snow is expected in these areas, with conditions worsening due to strong winds and icy roads.

Regions near the Great Lakes, such as Buffalo, New York, are under lake-effect snow warnings, with accumulations of up to 3 feet predicted through the weekend. Prolonged snow events are expected to disrupt travel for days, making conditions particularly hazardous for those attempting to return home from Thanksgiving celebrations.

Meanwhile, rain-drenched coastal areas, including Boston, New York City, and Philadelphia, face localized flooding, especially in low-lying neighborhoods and near waterways. While these areas have avoided snow, the Thanksgiving winter storm continues to complicate travel plans across the Northeast.

Stay Safe with These Winter Travel Tips

Given the storm's widespread impact, travelers are advised to prioritize safety:

• Plan Ahead: Monitor live weather updates, road conditions, and traffic reports to choose the safest travel routes.
• Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include blankets, water, food, a flashlight, extra clothing, and a phone charger in your vehicle.
• Drive Safely: Reduce speed, maintain greater following distances, and avoid abrupt movements that could cause skidding.
• Check Vehicle Readiness: Ensure tires have adequate tread, windshield wipers are in good condition, and your fuel tank is full.
• Avoid Flooded Areas: Coastal travelers should avoid water-covered roads and stay alert for rising water levels.

Prepare for Continued Winter Storm Impacts Over Thanksgiving Weekend 

The Thanksgiving winter storm is expected to taper off by early Friday morning for some regions, but lake-effect snow near the Great Lakes will persist through the weekend. Motorists and air travelers alike should anticipate ongoing delays and disruptions, especially as Sunday marks the busiest travel day of the year.

For those navigating these conditions, careful planning and preparation are essential. Keep emergency supplies handy, check weather updates regularly, and, if possible, delay travel until the storm has passed. Millions of Americans are feeling the storm’s effects, making safety the top priority this Thanksgiving weekend.

Happy Thanksgiving! Are you traveling this Thanksgiving weekend? Share your tips and stories on how to make your Thanksgiving journey safe and secure! Stay safe!

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