Key Takeaways:
- Heavy snow is impacting a large swath of the U.S. from the West to the Northeast, causing flight cancellations and delays at airports across the country.
- The Rockies and northern Plains are experiencing wintry weather, with periods of heavy snow stretching into the Great Lakes region.
- The Northeast can expect a dusting of up to 3 inches of snow, while parts of Iowa may see up to 6 to 8 inches.
- Over 4,100 flights have been delayed and 323 have been canceled as of Sunday morning, with O’Hare International Airport being the most affected.
- Fog alerts are in effect for parts of the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic, while the Southeastern region is experiencing heavy rain and a risk of severe weather.
Introduction to Winter Weather
The United States is experiencing a significant winter storm that is impacting a large area of the country, from the West to the Northeast. The storm is causing flight cancellations and delays at airports across the country, with the Rockies and northern Plains being the most affected. The wintry weather is expected to persist throughout the day, with periods of heavy snow stretching into the Great Lakes region, including major cities like Chicago. The Northeast can expect a dusting of up to 3 inches of snow, while parts of Iowa may see up to 6 to 8 inches.
Impact on Air Travel
The winter storm is having a significant impact on air travel, with over 4,100 flights delayed and 323 canceled as of Sunday morning. O’Hare International Airport is being hit the hardest, with over 760 delays and 174 cancellations. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and Charlotte Douglas International Airport are also experiencing significant delays and cancellations. The Federal Aviation Administration is reporting that departures from Hartsfield-Jackson are delayed by about 30 minutes, while departures to O’Hare are delayed by almost two hours due to inclement weather.
Fog and Rain in the Southeast
In addition to the snow, the Southeast is experiencing fog and rain. Various fog alerts are in effect for parts of the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic, including Texas and Alabama through Maryland. The fog is reducing visibility and causing some icy conditions in the Mid-Atlantic region. The Southeastern region is also experiencing heavy rain, with parts of Florida and Georgia recording over an inch of rain so far this weekend. There is a risk of severe weather in the region, including damaging winds and isolated tornadoes.
Snow and Floods in the Northwest
The Pacific Northwest is bracing for a series of atmospheric rivers that will bring the risk of flash flooding, heavy mountain snow, and strong wind gusts. Eight million people are under Flood Alerts throughout western Washington and Oregon, including in Seattle, Tacoma, Portland, and Eugene. The first wave of rain will arrive on Sunday, but the real concern for heavy rain and flash flooding will start on Monday morning. The region can expect rainfall totals of 2 to 5 inches, with parts of the lower elevations of the Cascades and Olympics receiving 6 to 10 inches of rain. Snow levels will be higher in the mountains, with feet of snow anticipated above 6,000 to 7,000 feet in parts of the Cascades, Olympics, and northern Rockies.
Conclusion and Outlook
In conclusion, the winter storm is having a significant impact on the United States, with heavy snow, fog, and rain affecting different parts of the country. The storm is expected to continue throughout the day, with the Northeast and Northwest being the most affected. The public is advised to stay indoors and avoid traveling unless necessary, as the conditions are expected to be hazardous. The National Weather Service is monitoring the situation closely and will provide updates as necessary. It is essential to stay informed and follow the latest weather forecast to stay safe during this winter storm.