Millions of Americans are bracing themselves for another major winter storm, which is expected to bring heavy snow and strong winds to cities such as Chicago and Milwaukee. Blizzard Warnings and winter weather alerts are in effect across the Plains, Midwest and Great Lakes region, and significant travel disruptions are expected in several airports including Quad City International Airport, Chicago O’Hare International Airport, Chicago Midway International Airport, General Mitchell International Airport, and Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport.
This latest storm comes days after a deadly winter storm slammed Central USA and brought nearly a foot of snow and whiteout conditions to parts of the Plains. Major cities in the Midwest were able to escape the wrath of that storm but won’t be as fortunate this time around. Weather experts caution that an increasingly sharp pressure gradient will develop between the strengthening winter storm and a building area of arctic air, leading to strong winds and the possibility of blizzard conditions.
According to the National Weather Service, blizzard warnings are already in effect across seven states, including most counties across Iowa. Life-threatening conditions are expected within the Blizzard Warning zone, with wind gusts up to 45 mph and visibilities less than a quarter mile. The combination of snow and winds will create dangerous conditions that will make road travel nearly impossible north of Interstate 80. The National Weather Service Office in Hastings, Nebraska, measured 3.2 inches of new snow outside their office around midnight, but the wind has resulted in a 3-foot drift by their back door.
The Fox Forecast Center says the worst of the storm will hit communities west of the Mississippi River on Friday afternoon, but conditions are expected to start deteriorating on Friday morning. Winds are expected to reach 45 to 50 mph, along with heavily falling snow. Major cities along the Great Lakes are not currently included in the Blizzard Warning. However, if needed, some locales could be staring down an event that hasn’t happened in years.
Travel disruptions due to severe weather conditions have become commonplace in recent years, leading to significant economic losses in the airline and transport sectors. The situation is worse for areas that are unprepared for such phenomena. However, the authorities have assured the citizens of their preparedness and have asked them to remain vigilant and take necessary safety measures.
Winter storms continue to plague the central and northern regions of the United States, and this latest storm is expected to cause further disruptions. With Blizzard Warnings and winter weather alerts in effect across several states, people are being urged to stay safe and warm as they try to navigate through this major winter storm.
