A recent snowstorm has blanketed the Rockies with up to 28 inches of snow, with the storm system now moving through the Plains and Midwest as millions of Americans are returning home from their Thanksgiving holiday.
Winter weather alerts are in effect for over 8 million people from the northern Texas Panhandle into northwest Illinois as several inches of snow are expected into Sunday morning. Areas such as Wichita, Topeka, Kansas City, Chicago, and Milwaukee could experience accumulating snow and travel disruptions through Sunday night.
The heaviest snow is forecast in central Kansas, where 4 to 8 inches could fall. Wichita and Topeka are both under winter storm warnings with the National Weather Service noting that travel will be difficult. Parts of northern Missouri are also expecting their first accumulating snow of the season with forecasted totals of 1 to 4 inches.
It is important for residents in the affected areas to stay updated with local weather advisories and exercise caution while traveling. The storm’s heaviest snowfall occurred in Wyoming where Lander received 22 to 28 inches. Accumulating snow has also been reported in Montana, Idaho, Utah, New Mexico, Colorado, South Dakota, Nebraska, western Kansas, and the Texas Panhandle.
As the storm progresses to the Northeast, mainly light snow is forecast but several inches of snow could fall in the high elevations and areas downwind of Lake Erie in western New York and northwest Pennsylvania. Additionally, some travel impacts are expected through mid-morning Sunday in areas such as Chicago, Milwaukee, Madison, and west-central Michigan.
It is important for individuals to stay vigilant and tuned to their local authorities for any updates regarding travel advisories due to the snowstorm that is expected to continue impacting various parts of the Midwest and Northeast.