Major Snowstorm Disrupts Thanksgiving Travel Across Midwest

UPDATE: A major winter storm is currently hammering the Midwest and Great Lakes region, causing significant disruptions to post-Thanksgiving travel. As of Saturday, November 25, 2023, heavy snowfall and hazardous road conditions have impacted millions of Americans returning home after the holiday.

Travelers should be on high alert as major airports in Chicago and St. Louis reported delays of approximately one hour this morning. Meteorologists are also warning that another winter storm could bring freezing rain and heavy snow to the Northeast early next week, potentially extending travel disruptions.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter storm warnings and advisories from Montana to Ohio. Some areas have already received over 8 inches of snow, with forecasts indicating that snow could accumulate at rates exceeding one inch per hour in certain locations, posing serious risks for both air and ground travel.

In a shocking incident, at least 45 vehicles crashed on westbound Interstate 70 near Terre Haute, Indiana, leading to highway closures, though fortunately, no serious injuries were reported. Northern Iowa has also seen significant snowfall, with similar accumulations expected across Chicago, Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Michigan.

Conditions across the region are hazardous, with motorists navigating snow-covered and slushy roads. Wind-driven icicles have formed on Chicago piers as the waters of Lake Michigan churn with whitecaps. While the storm’s intensity has not yet reached blizzard criteria, forecasters emphasize the urgent need for caution.

“Stay home, have a nice cup of hot chocolate, watch some TV, play some games,” advised Sheriff Del Garcia of Grant County, Indiana, emphasizing the dangers posed by the storm.

AccuWeather meteorologist Alyssa Glenny highlighted that the areas facing the most significant disruptions include Des Moines, IA, Chicago, IL, Green Bay, WI, Milwaukee, WI, and Grand Rapids, MI. These locations are projected to experience the heaviest snowfall and challenging travel conditions into Sunday.

Looking ahead, meteorologists are closely monitoring a separate storm system expected to develop in the South-Central U.S., advancing northeastward through the Southeast and into the Northeast corridor. This upcoming storm could deliver snowfall from Kansas and Nebraska through the Ohio Valley and into New England.

Travelers are urged to stay updated on weather forecasts as the current storm system continues to move through the region. Hazardous road conditions are expected to persist throughout the weekend, with airport delays likely to continue as snowfall remains a concern.

As the situation develops, residents and travelers should prioritize safety and remain cautious during this severe winter weather. Reporting from the Associated Press contributed to this article.