US north-east prepares for substantial snowfall following storm in midwest

Forecasters predict a powerful winter storm will affect much of the northeastern United States from Monday night through Tuesday, bringing heavy snow, ice, and rain, with millions of residents placed under winter storm alerts. The storm is expected to form over the Gulf states and move up along the eastern seaboard, reaching the region later Monday.

Most intense snowfall is predicted to taper off by Tuesday night, with conditions expected to improve by Wednesday. Areas from the Poconos to eastern Maine may receive between 5 and 10 inches of snow, while elevated regions of New England could see over a foot of accumulation.

The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings and advisories for Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine. This follows disruptions over the Thanksgiving weekend caused by a previous winter storm in the Midwest and Great Lakes, which led to major road accidents, hundreds of flight cancellations, and widespread delays.

Chicagos OHare Airport recorded 8.4 inches of snow on Saturday, marking the snowiest November day in the citys history. Flight disruptions and hazardous commuting conditions persisted into Monday evening. Other affected areas included Michigan, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, and Nebraska.

Meteorologist Andrew Orrison reported to the Associated Press that while snow in the Great Lakes is diminishing, the next storm is advancing toward the mid-Atlantic and northeastern states, with significant snow expected by Tuesday. He noted that for many regions, this will be the seasons first major snowfall, though major cities are unlikely to see extreme accumulation at this stage.

In coastal Maine, a warning is in effect from Tuesday morning until Wednesday morning, urging residents to postpone travel due to snowy conditions. Meanwhile, New Hampshires Department of Transportation has launched its second annual name-a-plow contest, inviting residents to submit creative names for state snowplows. Last years winning entry was Ctrl-Salt-Delete.

With snow expected across much of Pennsylvania, crews began treating the 565-mile Pennsylvania Turnpike on Monday. Vehicle restrictions on several eastern interstates will start at 5 a.m. Tuesday, according to Marissa Orbanek, the agencys press secretary, emphasizing the states year-round preparation for winter storms.

Author: Sophia Brooks