Arctic blast brings snowstorms, road closures and travel risks ahead of Thanksgiving
Some Thanksgiving travelers are facing dangerous winter weather as a powerful Arctic blast pushes across the northern United States.
(CNN)- Some Thanksgiving travelers are facing dangerous winter weather as a powerful Arctic blast pushes across the northern United States, delivering blizzards, bitter cold, and hazardous driving conditions.
In North Dakota, the Highway Patrol reported multiple road closures near Fargo on Tuesday as blowing snow reduced visibility and created treacherous conditions. The National Weather Service recorded at least eight inches of snowfall in parts of the state. In neighboring Minnesota, officials say several semi-trucks jackknifed and blocked a roadway, causing a lengthy backup of vehicles. No injuries were reported.
Despite the severe weather, AAA says most Thanksgiving travelers still plan to drive, noting that hitting the road gives people more flexibility if plans need to adjust.
“If you’re watching the weather and perhaps the day you want to leave or come back there’s bad weather, you have that control,” said AAA spokesperson Aixa Diaz.
Air travelers may also feel the effects. Forecasts show the potential for delays and cancellations today at several major airports, including Chicago, Boston, New York, and cities farther down the East Coast. Meteorologists are also tracking fresh snowfall impacting Northwestern airports.
The cold air mass is spreading east and south from the Great Lakes, bringing frigid temperatures and harsh wind chills. Blustery winds are expected to make the cold feel even more intense.
In Kansas City, local volunteers are stepping up to help vulnerable residents prepare for the freeze. Teen nonprofit founder Reagan Gallaway says her organization, K’ing the Cold, began by handing out blankets and sleeping bags, but now offers gloves, hats, socks and hand warmers as temperatures drop.
The wintry weather is expected to continue affecting parts of the country as millions of Americans make their way to Thanksgiving destinations.
