As the Midwest saw record snowfalls over the weekend, travelers struggled to navigate congested airports and hazardous roads. At Chicago O’Hare International Airport, over 8 inches of snow fell, leading to more than 300 flight cancellations and 1,600 delays, according to FlightAware.
Travelers described frustrating conditions at the airport, with many crowded into seating areas, restaurants, and even the floors as they awaited their flights. 'It is what it is,' said one weary traveler. The first major snowstorm of the season is now headed towards the Northeast, where some regions are expected to receive as much as 10 inches of snow.
Pennsylvania Turnpike crews prepped for snowfall, treating lanes ahead of the event with 600 operators on standby to tackle 2,900 miles of snow lanes. Vehicle restrictions for certain areas of the Turnpike are set to take effect as the winter weather settles in.
Across the Great Lakes region, local reports indicated that areas received overfoot snow totals, pacifying some travel routines but leading to numerous power outages in Michigan and Wisconsin. We Energies reported thousands without power as utility crews worked around the clock to restore services.
Forecasters predict significant snowfall as the storm sweeps through the mid-Atlantic states toward the Northeast. Meteorologist Andrew Orrison emphasizes the storm's intensity, particularly impacting travel safety and winter operations.
Overall, agencies and travelers alike brace for the ongoing winter challenges, with hopes for safer conditions in the coming days.
