Northeast Braces for Historic Snowstorm Amid Travel Disruptions

Mon Dec 08 2025 05:11:57 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As the Northeast prepares for significant snowfall, authorities advise caution on the roads. The upcoming winter storm follows record-breaking snow in the Midwest, making travel challenging for many returning home after the Thanksgiving holiday.

The Northeast is bracing for its first substantial snowstorm of the season, with forecasts indicating up to 10 inches of snow in some areas. The National Weather Service has issued winter storm warnings across several states as they prepare for the impact of the storm. Meanwhile, travelers in the Midwest are recovering from delays and cancellations due to earlier snow. Snowplow preparations are underway in Pennsylvania, and localities in New Hampshire are engaging the community with creative winter-themed initiatives.

PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — The Northeast is gearing up for its first major snowstorm of the season, with up to 10 inches of snow expected in some areas. The arrival of this icy storm comes as the Midwest begins to recover from severe snow and ice that disrupted travel after Thanksgiving.

According to forecasters, a windy and potentially icy storm is making its way across the region, with winter storm warnings and weather advisories issued for states including Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine, Connecticut, and New York.

Recently, Chicago O'Hare International Airport recorded over 8 inches of snow in just one day, marking the highest single-day snowfall in November since 1951, which adds to the travel chaos experienced in the area.

As the storm approaches, meteorologist Andrew Orrison warned of significant snow accumulation that could reach up to a foot in some areas by Tuesday.

Winter Weather Alerts Across New England

The National Weather Service has advised residents in coastal Maine to avoid travel from Tuesday morning until Wednesday morning due to hazardous conditions. This storm marks the first significant snowfall of December for the region.

In New Hampshire, the Department of Transportation has initiated a community engagement activity through its ‘name-a-plow’ competition, inviting locals to submit creative names for its snowplows. Last year's winning name was ‘Ctrl-Salt-Delete’.

Pennsylvania Prepares for Heavy Snow

Pennsylvania is preparing for plowable snow across large areas of the state. Crews began treating roadways on Monday and vehicle restrictions will be enforced on many interstates starting Tuesday morning. The turnpike system has mobilized over 600 operators and workers to ensure safe passage on over 2,900 miles of lanes.

“We really prepare for snow all year long,” said Marissa Orbanek, press secretary for the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission.

Travelers Confront Disruptions in the Midwest

In Chicago, travelers experienced significant delays due to the recent winter storm. Don Herrian, a 76-year-old retiree, struggled with delayed flights while trying to return home after visiting family. Roads leading to O'Hare remained congested even after snow clearance operations.

The situation highlights the heavy toll winter weather can take on travel, as many airports, including Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, were grappling with de-icing procedures.