Lake-Effect Snow Blankets Great Lakes Region, Interrupting Holiday Travel
Parts of the Great Lakes region faced a tangible winter wonderland Monday, bracing for sustained snowfall that threatened to disrupt post-Thanksgiving travel. Snow showers began overnight in western Michigan, and heavier, persistent lake-effect snow accumulating to a foot (30 centimeters) was predicted throughout the day.
More snow was expected on Wednesday and Thursday, accompanied by gusty winds and freezing temperatures.
“Bands of lake effect snowfall will impact mainly lakeshore locations through the morning commute,” the National Weather Service’s Grand Rapids, Michigan office warned, adding “This will lead to sudden changes in the visibility and snow-covered roadways.”
Over the weekend, nearly four feet (1.2 meters) of snow had already blanketed parts of upstate New York, Pennsylvania and Michigan.
Lake-effect snow warnings were in effect through Tuesday night for sections of Ohio, New York and Pennsylvania.
The relentless snowfall didn’t deter diehard NFL fans who braved the elements for a Sunday night game in Buffalo. Fans bundled up for the game between the Buffalo Bills and the San Francisco 49ers.
Tim LoTemple, a Bills season-ticket holder from Rochester, New York and part of the team’s fervent fan base known as “Bills Mafia,” said frigid temperatures and snow energized the fans—though for much of the game it was somewhat temperate compared to other Buffalo games. “We love snow over here,” said LoTemple. “You know how Bills Mafia is, we love the cold. This is nothing compared to what we’ve seen before.”
Not everyone shared the enthusiasm. Jake Dyer, an Indianapolis Colts fan visiting from Southern California, found the temperature shocking.
“Only thing I didn’t prepare for was shoes. I double up on everything else, but my feet are cold,” he said. “Mad respect for anybody who comes out.”
In Pennsylvania and New York, governors declared states of emergency. Erie County, Pennsylvania, where nearly two feet (61 centimeters) of snow had fallen, witnessed a closure of City Hall on Monday and Tuesday.
The winter storm wasn’t concentrated solely near Lake Ontario. Parts of Michigan were hit hard by lake-effect snow. Bands off Lake Superior even- pewter Some areas the Upper Peninsula under two feet (61 centimeters) or more. A weather service meteorologist reported that an impressive 27 inches (69 centimeters) fell northeast of Ironwood in the Upper Peninsula’s western reaches.
Over a further foot (30.5 centimeters) of snow was predicted across the eastern Upper Peninsula by Monday morning
II. **Beyond the immediate areas impacted by heavy snowfall, which other regions in the Great Lakes area might experience indirect consequences from this weather event?**
## Lake-Effect Snow Blankets Great Lakes Region
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. We’re continuing our coverage of the intense lake-effect snowstorm impacting the Great Lakes region, causing major travel disruptions just as people are trying to return home from the Thanksgiving holiday. Joining us now is meteorologist Dr. Sarah Jones to help us understand what’s happening. Dr. Jones, thanks so much for being with us.
**Dr. Jones:** Thanks for having me.
**Host:** So, Dr. Jones, can you give us an overview of the situation?
**Dr. Jones:** Absolutely. This lake-effect snow event is a classic example of how the Great Lakes can fuel powerful winter storms. As cold air moves over the relatively warmer lake waters, it picks up moisture and releases it as heavy snow downwind. Right now, western Michigan is seeing significant snowfall, with parts of the region already seeing a foot of accumulation. The National Weather Service has issued warnings about hazardous travel conditions due to reduced visibility and slick roads, especially during the morning commute. [[1](https://www.cnn.com/2024/11/30/us/thanksgiving-weekend-lake-effect-snow-saturday/index.html)]
**Host:** And this isn’t just a short burst of snow, right?
**Dr. Jones:** No, unfortunately not. We’re expecting continued heavy snow throughout the week, potentially leading to several feet of accumulation in some areas. Gusty winds and freezing temperatures will only make matters worse, creating blizzard-like conditions in spots. This storm system is particularly strong and could linger longer than usual.
**Host:** We know parts of upstate New York have already been hit hard. How widespread is this event?
**Dr. Jones:** This lake-effect snow band is affecting several states bordering the Great Lakes, including Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. While the intensity varies, everyone in these areas should be prepared for winter weather hazards and monitor local forecasts closely.
**Host:** Dr. Jones, any advice for viewers traveling in these impacted areas?
**Dr. Jones:** Absolutely. It’s crucial to check road conditions before venturing out. If possible, delay travel until the storm passes. If you must travel, pack an emergency kit with blankets, water, snacks, and a fully charged cell phone. Let someone know your route and expected arrival time. Lastly, be prepared for slow and difficult driving conditions.
**Host:** Dr. Jones, thank you so much for sharing your expertise. Stay safe, everyone, and we’ll continue to monitor the situation.
