A powerful lake-effect snowstorm is poised to create perilous conditions for communities downwind of the Great Lakes, bringing whiteouts, rapid snowfall, and life-threatening cold. This event, expected to unfold over the days following Thanksgiving, could immobilize some areas with feet of snow, leaving travelers and residents to contend with the harshest winter weather of the season so far.
The phenomenon of lake-effect snow occurs when frigid air sweeps over the relatively warm waters of the Great Lakes. This temperature contrast fuels towering clouds and intense snow bands. Some of these snow bands can be incredibly narrow, only a few miles wide, yet they deliver an outsized impact. Areas directly under these bands can see snowfall rates of 2–5 inches per hour, making road conditions treacherous and potentially forcing closures on major highways like I-79, I-90, and I-86 in New York and Pennsylvania, as well as Michigan’s I-75 and I-196.
Travelers Beware: Rapid Changes Ahead
For those unfamiliar with lake-effect snow, the conditions can be startling. In a matter of miles, weather can shift from clear skies to near-blizzard conditions, creating a false sense of security. “Travelers could find themselves stranded within minutes,” cautions Jonathan Porter, AccuWeather’s Chief Meteorologist. In such situations, subfreezing temperatures and snow-blocked exhaust pipes could increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning in vehicles.
High-impact snow zones, such as Buffalo’s southern suburbs and New York’s Tug Hill Plateau region, may see accumulations ranging from 2 to 6 feet. Winds accompanying the snow will exacerbate the situation, causing whiteouts and deep drifts that could bury vehicles and obstruct home entrances.
Impact on Holiday Plans
The timing couldn’t be worse, as the Thanksgiving holiday weekend often sees heavy travel. Residents and visitors alike are urged to exercise caution and plan for delays. Those attending events, such as the Buffalo Bills’ home game at Highmark Stadium, should prepare for hazardous conditions as up to a foot of snow could fall in the area by game time, with heavier bands just south.
The lake-effect snowstorm, coupled with Alberta clippers fast-moving systems from western Canada could intensify conditions further, adding snow to areas less impacted by the lake effect. As winter’s grip tightens, meteorologists continue to monitor for additional storm developments that could bring even broader snowfall coverage.
In the face of such extreme weather, preparedness is key. Stock up on essentials, monitor local forecasts, and avoid travel during intense snow bands. Nature’s winter display may be breathtaking, but it’s not without significant risk.
