A series of winter storms may hit areas of the northern United States this week, bringing heavy snow and severe winds, prompting the National Weather Service (NWS) to issue winter storm watches in numerous states.
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Forecasters warn that heavy snow and strong winds may cause hazardous travel conditions in some places, causing substantial disruption as millions prepare to travel for Thanksgiving.
What To Know
Winter storm watches are in effect in Minnesota, North Dakota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and New York.
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula could receive 12 inches or more of snow between Tuesday and Thursday, with gusts up to 45 mph.
The National Weather Service cautioned that travel in this area might be “very difficult to impossible,” as snow could drastically decrease visibility and gusts could knock down tree branches.
Heavy lake-effect snow, ranging from 6 to 12 inches, could fall in northern Wisconsin along the Lake Superior shoreline, with wind gusts reaching 35 mph.
Heavy snow is forecast in Ashland and Iron counties from Tuesday to Wednesday, with the latter perhaps receiving more than 12 inches.
The NWS cautioned that travel in these locations might be “very difficult to impossible,” with roads, bridges, and overpasses becoming “slick and hazardous.”
Multiple winter storm watches are in force over northern and central Minnesota, with some areas expecting up to 9 inches of snow between Tuesday and Wednesday.
Between Monday and Tuesday, parts of northern and southern North Dakota are expected to get at least 4 inches of snow, as well as high winds.
From Wednesday to Friday, lake-effect snow could reach more than 7 inches in certain areas of western and upstate New York, making driving risky due to strong winds and likely whiteout.
In some regions, individuals are advised to postpone travel wherever feasible and to take extreme caution if travel is required.
What Happens Next
Travelers are encouraged to monitor weather reports and plan their trip accordingly.
