Conditions for Holiday Travelers in the Midwest
Post-holiday travelers in the Midwest faced challenging weather conditions on Monday, particularly characterized by black ice, lingering snow showers, and dense fog. These elements complicated travel plans as families returned home after the Thanksgiving holiday, adding a layer of stress to an already busy travel period.
Record Snowfall in Chicago
Chicago O’Hare International Airport experienced an extraordinary weekend, recording over 8 inches (20.32 cm) of snow. This snowfall not only set a new record for the highest single calendar day snowfall in November but also surpassed the previous record held since 1951. The National Weather Service confirmed this remarkable statistic, highlighting the substantial impact of this winter storm.
Flight Cancellations and Delays
As a result of the snowfall, roughly 300 flights into and out of O’Hare were canceled by early Sunday evening, with an astounding 1,600 flights delayed throughout the day. Travelers found themselves navigating a chaotic airport environment, with lingering effects into Monday. Commuting conditions on the roads remained hazardous, prompting advisories to avoid non-essential travel in certain areas well into the night.
The Northeast Prepares for a Major Snowstorm
Simultaneously, the Northeast was gearing up for its first significant snowstorm of the season. Forecasts indicated that parts of northern New England might receive up to 10 inches (25.4 cm) of new snow. The storm was expected to impact all six states, bringing both strong winds and icy conditions that could hinder travel further.
Measures on the Pennsylvania Turnpike
In Pennsylvania, preparations for the anticipated storm were well underway. The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission announced that crews would treat snow lanes along its expansive 565-mile (909-kilometer) system on Monday. Vehicle restrictions were scheduled to begin on Tuesday morning in certain areas to manage the incoming snow, demonstrating a proactive approach to ensuring safety and mobility during adverse weather conditions.
Snow Removal Operations
According to Marissa Orbanek, the agency’s press secretary, more than 600 equipment operators and safety workers were mobilized to clear approximately 2,900 miles (4,667 kilometers) of snow lanes along the turnpike. The winter staffing plan was implemented well in advance, with 23 maintenance sheds ready to operate around the clock. “We really prepare for snow all year long,” Orbanek stated, emphasizing the commitment to public safety.
Travelers Share Their Experiences
Among the many travelers navigating the tumultuous weather was Don Herrian, a 76-year-old retiree from Ardmore, Oklahoma. As he stood amidst the chaos at O’Hare, Herrian shared his frustration about the delays affecting his return home after visiting family. His first flight was delayed by three hours, and his connecting flight faced an additional two-hour setback. Despite the stress, he maintained a positive outlook, accepting the situation as a normal part of holiday travel.
Airport Crowds and Travel Chaos
The airport was a microcosm of the struggles faced by travelers across the region, with packed roads leading to O’Hare and long queues inside the terminal. Even after snowplows cleared the roadways, slow-moving vehicles created a congested approach to the airport. Inside, travelers occupied every available seat—gate areas, restaurants, and even the floors—as they waited for updates on their flights, some passing the time by snacking, knitting, or scrolling through their phones.
Impact on Other Airports and Communities
The weather’s ramifications extended beyond Chicago, with numerous airports facing delays and cancellations. Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport also experienced significant de-icing operations as winter conditions took hold. In western Michigan, churches encouraged parishioners to stay home or attend services online due to treacherous conditions. Utility crews in Wisconsin worked tirelessly to restore power to thousands of customers affected by the snow, with We Energies reporting over 6,000 outages by Sunday evening.
Ongoing Weather Challenges
The challenges were not limited to major airports. The National Weather Service reported that gusty winds in Iowa were causing drifting snow to obscure roadways, creating hazardous travel conditions across the region. Areas in both Iowa and Illinois received considerable snowfall, with some locations experiencing over one foot (30 cm). Meteorologist Andrew Orrison noted that while the snow in the Great Lakes region was subsiding, a new storm system was advancing toward the mid-Atlantic and Northeast, promising more significant snowfall for many areas.
Preparing for Future Storms
Amidst the chaos, weather experts outlined the potential for significant snowfall in the upcoming days. Orrison anticipated that many regions would see their first substantial snow of the season, potentially amounting to a foot (30 cm) by Tuesday. Fortunately, predictions indicated that major urban centers were unlikely to face extreme conditions this time around, offering a glimmer of relief for residents and travelers alike.