Buffalo, New York – Before heading out for post-Thanksgiving travel or venturing out for Black Friday deals, it’s essential to check the local forecast as snowfall may cause disruptions across the northern Plains and Midwest. A significant lake effect snow event in the Great Lakes region is anticipated to continue through the weekend, affecting millions of people from northern Minnesota to upstate New York. Areas downwind of lakes Erie and Ontario could see snowfall totals exceeding 3 feet, with the possibility of blinding snowfall rates of up to 3 to 4 inches per hour and thundersnow, a rare combination of a snowstorm and thunderstorm. The highest snow accumulations are expected east of Lake Ontario, with some isolated areas potentially receiving up to 60 inches of snow around Watertown, New York.
Interstate 90 between Cleveland and Buffalo, as well as Interstate 81 north of Syracuse, New York, may experience challenging road conditions. The upcoming “Sunday Night Football” game between the San Francisco 49ers and the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park could also face snow coverage, with predictions of 12 to 18 inches of snow accumulation and the potential for higher amounts. Additionally, an estimated 9 million people in the South are currently under freeze watches and warnings from Texas to the Carolinas, indicating the arrival of the coldest air mass yet from Canada.
Among the cities under freeze alerts are Abilene, Texas; Shreveport, Louisiana; Jackson, Mississippi; and Charleston, South Carolina. It is advised for residents in these areas to take precautions and prepare for the frosty temperatures heading their way. With millions of Americans potentially affected by the upcoming winter weather conditions, staying informed and taking necessary safety measures remain crucial. As weather patterns continue to evolve and temperatures drop, it is important to stay alert to any updates from local meteorologists to ensure a safe and smooth transition into the winter season.