The Midwest experienced severe post-holiday travel disruptions due to record snowfall, black ice, and fog, leading to hundreds of flight cancellations and delays, particularly at Chicago O'Hare. Simultaneously, the Northeast is gearing up for its first major snowstorm of the season, with forecasts predicting up to a foot of snow and icy conditions.
Post-holiday travelers in the Midwest faced widespread chaos on Monday as black ice, snow showers, and fog created hazardous conditions, while the Northeast braced for its first major snowstorm of the season. Chicago O’Hare International Airport recorded over 8 inches (20.32 centimeters) of snow this past weekend, setting a new November record for single-day snowfall. This resulted in approximately 300 flight cancellations and 1,600 delays by Sunday evening, with disruptions extending into Monday and dangerous road conditions persisting. Across the Midwest, areas near Lake Michigan saw over 12 inches (about 30 centimeters) of snow, causing thousands of power outages in Wisconsin and prompting churches in western Michigan to shift to online services. In Des Moines, Iowa, the airport briefly closed after a Delta Connection flight slid off an icy runway, though no injuries were reported. Detroit Metro Airport also experienced significant delays and cancellations. Meteorologists reported over a foot of snow in parts of Iowa and Illinois, with Fort Dodge, Iowa, receiving over 16 inches (40 centimeters). Meanwhile, a new, windy, and potentially icy storm is heading to the mid-Atlantic and Northeast. Northern New England is expecting up to 10 inches (25.4 cm) of snow, with up to a foot (30 centimeters) anticipated across the wider region by Tuesday. Pennsylvania Turnpike crews have begun treating snow lanes and plan vehicle restrictions, preparing for plowable snow. While it will be a significant first snowfall for many areas, major cities are not currently expected to see heavy accumulations.
