Forecast of Snowfall: Winter Storms to Cause Disruptions in Travel Plans at Christmas
The holiday period begins on a tricky note with millions of Americans bracing themselves for disruptions amidst widespread winter storms, according to the snowfall forecast.
With a record Christmas travel expected this year, inclement weather could make for a bumpy journey across much of the U.S.
Storms and Snow: What to Expect
The heavy snow and icy conditions have already begun to snarl travel from the Great Lakes to the Northeast. Southeastern Wisconsin is under a Winter Weather Advisory, where over 2 inches of snow has come to Milwaukee. In areas where Interstate 80 skirts through towns like Snow Shoe, Pennsylvania, snow and ice blanket the area, leading to hazardous driving.
A ground stop in Chicago led to delays of many flights out of O’Hare International Airport this morning. As millions travel by air, the effect of those delays could ripple across the country.
Record-Breaking Travel Numbers
AAA says nearly 120 million Americans will take to the road and sky this holiday season. The sheer number of people on the move-this week and next-makes planning ahead an essential exercise. Weather conditions vary widely, too: heavy rain and mountain snow will douse the West Coast this week, while the central and eastern United States experience quieter conditions on into Christmas Day.
Northeast’s Snow Surprise
The entire I-95 corridor from New York City to Boston remains on high alert, since the arrival of a couple of inches of snow, possibly as early as Friday into Saturday, may dramatically impact one of the busiest travel regions in the country due to the specific conditions.
Behind the snow comes an arctic blast for the Northeast, where temperatures drop down into the teens and single digits. Wind chills could make conditions feel even colder as the harshest conditions in two years hit the region.
Relentless Rain Faces West Coast
On the other coast, a parade of storms will deluge areas from San Francisco to Seattle, dropping up to 6 inches of rain in Northern California and Oregon through Tuesday. Feet of snow falls out west in mountain regions, such as the Cascades and Sierra Nevada, making travel treacherous for holiday visitors.
End-of-Year Warmup
After the Christmas chill, much of the U.S. will see a rare warmup heading into 2025. Above-average temperatures are forecast for the Lower 48 by the Climate Prediction Center, offering a bit of respite after a frosty first half of the holiday period.
If you’re traveling this Christmas, check road and airport conditions frequently, pack additional supplies for your trip, and be prepared for delays. Yes, the holiday season is a time for joy, but flexibility and caution are important to make sure you arrive at your destination safely.
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