As the Thanksgiving holiday weekend draws to a close, an Arctic blast continues to impact much of the U.S., bringing heavy snowfall and frigid temperatures, particularly in parts of the Northeast and Great Lakes regions. Despite the severe weather, snowmobilers and skiers are making the most of the wintry conditions, and forecasters are offering some hope for the upcoming NFL game in Buffalo.
In upstate New York’s Tug Hill region, lake-effect snow dumped up to 46 inches (117 centimeters) in areas like Barnes Corners. Kevin Tyo, a local businessman, said residents have been “digging out” and plowing continuously. “I have a plow attached to my truck, a tractor with a bucket, and a snowblower,” he said, describing the ongoing effort to clear snow.
In Buffalo, where the NFL’s Bills were scheduled to face the San Francisco 49ers Sunday night, snowstorms were intensifying. The snow began falling heavily on Saturday, leading the team to hire snow shovelers for the game, offering $20 per hour along with food and hot drinks. The weather conditions near Highmark Stadium were expected to vary, depending on the movement of the lake-effect snowstorm. The State Weather Risk Communication Center noted that snowfall could continue through the game, with totals potentially reaching several inches.
Across the Northern Plains, Arctic air swept through last week, sending temperatures plunging to 10 to 20 degrees Fahrenheit below average. The cold front was expected to push into the eastern U.S. by Monday, bringing more chilly temperatures. In Erie, Pennsylvania, heavy snow created “treacherous” conditions, with snowplows getting stuck as they worked to clear the roads. Local officials reported approximately 100 cars blocking city streets, preventing plows from passing.
State officials in New York and Pennsylvania declared emergencies due to the extreme weather. New York Governor Kathy Hochul said the state had been preparing for the storm by deploying snowplows and workers, while Pennsylvania’s Governor Josh Shapiro signed a disaster emergency proclamation. In Erie County, nearly 2 feet (61 centimeters) of snow had fallen by Saturday, with more expected through Monday.
In Michigan, lake-effect snow caused significant accumulation, especially in the Upper Peninsula. Snowfall totals of up to 27 inches (69 centimeters) were reported in areas like Ironwood, while Munising saw another 2 feet (61 centimeters). Snowfall in Gaylord set a new record for the area, with 24.8 inches (63 centimeters) falling on Friday. Ski resorts like Treetops Resort in Gaylord welcomed the snow, boosting their preparations for the upcoming season. “It’s great for the snow hills, but bad for the parking lots,” said Doug Hoeh, Recreation Director at Treetops Resort.
With lake-effect snow continuing to affect regions near Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, officials are urging caution as the storm progresses into Monday.
