Blizzard warnings are currently in effect across various regions of the Upper Midwest, as a potent snowstorm is projected to disrupt Thanksgiving travel plans significantly. The FOX Forecast Center has identified this system as the most impactful lake-effect snow event of the season, set to commence on Wednesday and extend through Thanksgiving Day into Black Friday.
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Aberdeen, South Dakota, confirmed blizzard conditions on Tuesday, reporting wind gusts ranging from 35 to 49 mph and severely reduced visibility at Aberdeen Regional Airport. This winter storm threatens to create challenging travel conditions primarily across the Great Lakes Snowbelts.
Alerts for blizzards are in effect throughout parts of western Minnesota, northeastern South Dakota, northern Michigan, and northwestern Wisconsin, with some warnings expected to remain active through Friday. On Tuesday, parts of North Dakota reported over six inches of snow, while Michigan’s Upper Peninsula could experience wind gusts reaching up to 50 mph. This situation is likely to lead to whiteout conditions, posing life-threatening challenges for drivers.
In response to the incoming storm, the NWS has issued Winter Storm Watches for several areas starting Wednesday, with many alerts lasting into Friday evening. Forecast models indicate that Michigan’s Upper Peninsula may receive snowfall accumulating to several feet by the storm’s conclusion. Local authorities in Marquette, Michigan, have advised residents to reconsider any travel plans they might have for Wednesday and Thanksgiving Day.
The snowstorm will follow a system moving out of the Northern Plains, which is expected to bring rain to the Great Lakes region on Tuesday. Snowfall will likely be confined mostly to the Dakotas and Minnesota initially, with a wintry mix anticipated by Wednesday due to another fast-moving system.
By Thanksgiving Day, the lake-effect snow is expected to ramp up across Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where snow bands could be both intense and persistent. The area around Marquette could see totals of 2 to 3 feet of snow leading into Friday, although these accumulations will depend heavily on the direction of the wind.
In addition, the FOX Forecast Center has pointed out that the heaviest snow bands may develop over regions just south of Buffalo, New York, potentially affecting areas like Dunkirk and Jamestown. As the winds shift on Friday, snow bands will likely be pushed further south, impacting locals in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and western New York, with some areas expected to receive a foot or more of snow by Black Friday.
Travelers are urged to stay informed and cautious as the holiday approaches, as conditions are predicted to worsen significantly. Keeping an eye on updated forecasts will be essential for anyone planning to travel in these affected areas.