Winter Storm Brings Disruptions to Northeast and Great Lakes Regions
A powerful winter storm has brought significant disruptions to the Northeast and Great Lakes regions, with over 2,000 flights canceled or delayed on Saturday. The storm, which packed a mix of ice and snow, has affected the busy travel period between Christmas and New Year’s, causing widespread travel disruptions. According to data from FlightAware, at least 2,700 flights have been canceled across the U.S. since Friday, with thousands more delayed.
New York City’s Central Park received 4.3 inches of snow, marking the first snowfall greater than four inches since January 2022, as reported by CBS News New York meteorologist Matthew DeLucia. The snowfall was less than predicted, but still caused significant disruptions to travel plans. Newark Liberty International Airport, John F. Kennedy International Airport, and LaGuardia Airport all posted snow warnings on social media, cautioning travelers about potential flight disruptions.
State of Emergency Declared in New York
New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency for over half of the state, urging residents to delay their travel plans. In an interview with CBS News New York, Hochul advised people to stay off the roads and allow plows to clear the snow. The National Weather Service warned of hazardous travel conditions, with the potential for tree damage and power outages. Forecasters predicted the storm would weaken by Saturday morning, but not before causing significant disruptions.
The storm has affected over 13 million people, with 7.7 million under a winter storm watch. Winter storm warnings are in effect for areas including New York City, northern New Jersey, and western Connecticut. An ice storm warning is also in effect for central Pennsylvania, with roads and sidewalks expected to be slick on Saturday. Temperatures are expected to be above freezing during the day, but black ice could form on roads overnight.
Forecast and Weather Conditions
Forecasters predict more snow in the Midwest and Great Lakes this weekend, with rain and embedded thunderstorms possible on Sunday evening. Blizzard conditions are likely by early Monday, with blowing snow and possible whiteout conditions. In the Northeast, snow is expected to wrap up across central and southern New England, with colder-than-normal temperatures expected for the rest of the weekend. Snow will continue in the northern and central Rockies and nearby High Plains, but a fast-moving system will limit snowfall amounts.
Arctic air will surge south on Saturday behind a strong cold front, bringing some of the coldest air yet this season. Temperatures will drop below zero in parts of Montana by Sunday morning, with wind chills falling below minus 30 degrees and gusty winds. For the latest updates and forecast, visit Here
Image Source: www.cbsnews.com
