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Lake-effect snow is a meteorological phenomenon that occurs when cold, wind-driven air passes over the warm waters of a large body of water, such as the Great Lakes, forming clouds and producing heavy snowfall. This unique weather pattern is currently blanketing parts of the United States with several feet of snow, creating hazardous conditions for residents in the Great Lakes area.
The Weather Prediction Center reported that over two million people living downwind of Lakes Michigan, Erie, and Ontario are under lake-effect snow warnings, with significant snowfall expected in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York this weekend. Western New York has already been hit hard by the snow, with roughly four feet of accumulation reported in recent days.
The frigid temperatures accompanying the snowfall are expected to last for several days, with approximately 70% of the country experiencing temperatures below freezing. Major cities such as New York City, Chicago, Atlanta, Minneapolis, and Cincinnati will see below-average temperatures throughout the week.
Residents in the affected areas are bracing themselves for the wintry conditions. Erie, Pennsylvania, saw homeowners spending hours shoveling and blowing snow off their driveways and sidewalks on Saturday. Richard Korytowski, an Erie native, expressed his surprise at the amount of snowfall, stating that he expected to shovel but not to this extent.
Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency in 11 western and central New York counties to respond to the snowstorm. National Guard members were deployed to support storm operations, while local officials issued a code blue alert urging residents to seek aid during the severe weather.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro called in the National Guard on Saturday to assist stranded motorists and ensure emergency services could reach those in need. As Thanksgiving travelers make their way home, the National Weather Service warns of treacherous road conditions due to whiteout snow showers and limited visibility in the affected regions.
The National Weather Service predicts that temperatures in the eastern United States will be significantly below normal in the coming days, with an Arctic chill descending from Canada. High temperatures are expected to be 10 to 20 degrees below average throughout the Northern Plains, Ohio Valley, and along the east coast.
Lake-effect snowfall is a prominent feature of this weather pattern, with Pennsylvania, northern Ohio, and western New York expected to receive 1 to 2 feet of snow through Monday. The Weather Prediction Center states that the heaviest snow totals will impact areas downwind of lakes Erie and Ontario, affecting northeast Ohio, northwest Pennsylvania, and western New York.
Residents in these regions have shared footage of the heavy snowfall burying homes and roads, with some areas receiving over three feet of snow in just a few days. The Buffalo Bills football team has called upon supporters to help clear snow from Highmark Stadium ahead of their scheduled game on Sunday night.
As the snow continues to fall and temperatures plummet, residents are advised to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel. The hazardous road conditions and limited visibility pose a significant risk to motorists, making post-holiday travel challenging for those in the affected areas.
Despite the challenges posed by the severe weather, communities are coming together to support each other and weather the storm. As residents brace themselves for another round of lake-effect snow, they are reminded to stay safe, stay warm, and look out for their neighbors during these challenging times.
