Tue Dec 03 13:20:00 UTC 2024: **Great Lakes Buried Under Record Snowfall, More on the Way**

**Buffalo, NY –** A historic lake-effect snowstorm has pummeled the Great Lakes region, leaving behind more than five feet of snow in some areas and causing widespread travel chaos. The storm, which began over the Thanksgiving weekend, has stranded motorists, buried homes, and led to numerous accidents.

Up to 69.5 inches of snow have fallen in areas like Castorland, Copenhagen, and Barnes Corners in northern New York. Lake-effect snow warnings remain in effect for parts of northeastern Ohio, northwestern Pennsylvania, and southwestern New York, with an additional foot of snow possible through Tuesday in some hard-hit areas. Winter storm warnings are also in place for western Michigan and northern Indiana.

A multi-vehicle pile-up on Interstate 94 near Hartford, Michigan, resulted in at least one critical injury, highlighting the dangerous driving conditions. The interstate was temporarily closed. In total, New York State Police assisted over 110 disabled vehicles between Thanksgiving and Sunday. Governors Kathy Hochul of New York and Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania declared states of emergency and mobilized the National Guard to assist stranded motorists and clear roads. Erie, Pennsylvania, experienced difficulties with snow removal as some city plows became stuck.

While snowfall is expected to ease by Tuesday evening, bringing temporary respite, another powerful cold front from Canada will arrive Wednesday, bringing more widespread snow through Thursday. While snowfall totals from this second storm will be less severe than the initial lake-effect event, several inches are still anticipated across the Great Lakes and parts of the Northeast. A return to lake-effect snow is predicted for Thursday.

The extreme cold is widespread, with temperatures below freezing forecast for nearly 70% of the US through next weekend. Sub-zero temperatures are expected in parts of the north-central US and Midwest by Thursday. The recipe for more lake-effect snow remains: cold air moving over relatively warmer lake waters. The National Weather Service warns of rapidly changing conditions, emphasizing the need for preparedness and caution.

Read More