A fast-moving midweek storm is sweeping through the northern US, bringing a mix of snow, ice, and rain that is causing significant travel disruptions across major cities from Chicago to New York City. This storm, the second in a series of three clipper systems traveling along the United States and Canada border, is expected to impact travel through Thursday, according to AccuWeather meteorologists.

Travel Disruptions and Hazardous Road Conditions

The storm is set to create dangerous travel conditions across the northern tier of the US, with icy roads, snow accumulation, and poor visibility from dense fog. The Midwest and Northeast, including major metro areas such as Chicago, Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, New York City, and Boston, will be hit with rain, ice, and snow.

Foggy patches associated with the storm are expected to create hazardous driving conditions, particularly along the Interstate 80 and 90 corridor. Dense fog will extend from the Midwest to the Gulf Coast states, posing a danger to travelers due to reduced visibility and slippery road surfaces.

The storm’s rain will also cause urban flooding and ponding on highways, particularly from I-80 to I-70, where frozen ground and snow piles could block drainage. In some areas, the combination of melting snow and rainfall may lead to ice-jam flooding, increasing the risk of road closures and travel delays.

Impact on Major Cities and Flight Cancellations

The storm is expected to bring rain to most major cities, with Detroit experiencing spotty ice and a mix of rain and snow. In New York City, Philadelphia, and Boston, rain will dominate, but pockets of sleet and freezing rain could create treacherous conditions on sidewalks and roads.

Air travel is also expected to be severely impacted, with flight delays and cancellations anticipated at major airports, including Chicago O’Hare International Airport, Philadelphia International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, and Boston Logan International Airport. Travelers are being advised to check with airlines for the latest flight status updates.

Snow and Ice Accumulation Across the Northern Tier

Snow accumulation is expected mainly from northern Michigan and central Ontario to southern Quebec, northern New England, and the northern tier of New York state. Several inches of snow are likely, adding to the heavy snowpack from previous storms that have already blanketed parts of Canada from Ottawa to Montreal and Quebec City.

A wintry mix of rain and snow is forecasted for parts of Wisconsin, Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, upstate New York, and central New England, including the Maine coast. Pockets of sleet and freezing rain could create icy roads and dangerous travel conditions in these regions.

Warning for Thinning Ice on Lakes and Ponds

The milder air associated with the storm will lead to thinning and thawing of ice on area ponds and lakes, posing a significant danger to people and animals. Authorities are urging the public to avoid venturing onto the ice due to the increased risk of falling through.

Another Potent Storm to Follow

Meteorologists warn that another, more potent storm is expected to follow closely on the heels of this midweek system, taking a similar path and potentially bringing heavier snow to the US-Canada twin tiers. This could further exacerbate travel disruptions and hazardous conditions for the northern US.

Travel Advisory and Precautionary Measures

Travel advisories have been issued across affected regions, urging drivers to exercise caution and avoid non-essential travel. Snowplows and salt trucks are being deployed to keep major highways clear, but delays are expected due to rapidly changing weather conditions.

Authorities are also advising travelers to stay informed about the latest weather updates and prepare for possible power outages, road closures, and flight cancellations. Travelers are encouraged to carry emergency kits, including food, water, blankets, and safety gear, in case of travel disruptions or delays.

Conclusion: Severe Weather to Impact Travel Across Northern US

As the midweek storm continues to move across the northern US, travel disruptions are expected to worsen, impacting millions of people across major cities and transportation networks. With the risk of snow, ice, rain, fog, and urban flooding, travelers are urged to exercise caution, stay informed about weather conditions, and plan ahead to ensure safety.