Severe Winter Weather Disrupts Travel in Midwest and Northeast

Tue Dec 02 2025 08:33:40 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A severe winter storm events culminate in record snowfalls, flight cancellations, and dangerous travel conditions across the Midwest and Northeast this week.

Monday saw deadly winter weather wreak havoc across the Midwest, leading to record-breaking snowfall and significant flight cancellations, especially at Chicago O'Hare Airport. As travelers returned after the Thanksgiving holiday, more than 300 flights were canceled, with many experiencing delays of up to several hours. Meanwhile, northeastern states brace for a major snowstorm that threatens to drop additional significant snowfall. Pennsylvania began its snow management efforts ahead of the storm as forecasters predict both snow and freezing rain for the region's upcoming weather.

PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — A severe winter storm disrupted post-holiday travel in the Midwest on Monday, while the Northeast prepared for its first significant snowstorm of the season. Snow showers, black ice, and fog were reported across various regions as frustrated travelers faced challenges returning home after Thanksgiving.

Chicago O'Hare International Airport recorded over 8 inches of snow during the weekend, breaking a long-standing record for the highest single-day snowfall in November, a record previously set in 1951. As a result, over 300 flights were canceled and nearly 1,600 delayed by early Sunday evening, with commuting conditions expected to remain treacherous through Monday night.

In the Northeast, parts of northern New England anticipate up to 10 inches of snow as a potent winter storm moves in, possibly bringing rain and icy conditions to various areas across six states. Plow crews in Pennsylvania began treating the roadways on Monday, preparing for expected plowable snowfall.

We always prepare for snow all year long, said Marissa Orbanek, press secretary for the Pennsylvania Turnpike agency. Vehicle restrictions will be put in place starting Tuesday morning.

Over 600 maintenance workers are on standby to respond with snow removal across the turnpike system, which encompasses approximately 2,900 miles. These efforts began as early as mid-November to ensure readiness for significant snow accumulation.

In spite of winter challenges, travelers expressed resilience. A 76-year-old retiree, Don Herrian, found himself at O'Hare dealing with delays upon returning from visiting family in Indianapolis. It is what it is,” he remarked. Travelers crowded terminals and eateries awaiting updates as airlines conducted de-icing procedures across multiple airports, including Ronald Reagan Washington National and Minneapolis–Saint Paul.

Further complicating travel, thousands remain without power in Wisconsin, and road hazards are aggravated by high winds in Iowa. Snowfall was significant, with some areas reporting over a foot, straining local infrastructures.

Looking ahead, meteorologists warn of an incoming storm affecting the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast, likely to yield significant accumulation in many regions by Tuesday.