The United States is bracing for a major winter storm, with blizzard warnings, lake-effect snow, and extremely hazardous travel conditions.
Several regions in the Northeast, Midwest, and Appalachians are expected to see snowfall accumulations of up to 18 inches, accompanied by strong winds and reduced visibility. This storm comes less than a week after exceptional snowfalls in New York State.
Starting Thursday night, a winter storm is intensifying across upstate New York. Some areas could receive up to 18 inches (45.72 cm) of snow, particularly in Oswego and Lewis counties, due to lake-effect snow. According to the NWS, “blowing snow from strong winds will drastically reduce visibility”, which will further complicate travel in these areas.
These regions are just recovering from the heavy snowfalls experienced during the Thanksgiving weekend storm, which dropped as much as 5 feet (1.52 metres) of snow in some parts of the state. Ongoing alerts include lake-effect snow warnings, winter storm warnings, and blowing snow advisories, all of which are threatening visibility.
Blizzard conditions are especially affecting West Virginia and Maryland, where winds of up to 60 mph (96.56 km/h) are forecasted. These extreme conditions will bring sudden snow squalls and powerful gusts.
The National Weather Service warns that “blizzard conditions are likely to make driving extremely dangerous”, due to zero visibility. Local authorities are advising drivers to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. In West Virginia, particularly in Grant and Pendleton counties, accumulations could reach 9 inches (22.86 cm), with especially treacherous conditions in the mountains.