New York is experiencing a significant snowstorm, with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) predicting Sunday as the busiest travel day of the Thanksgiving holiday. Over three million travelers are expected to be screened, as parts of the state face disruptions due to heavy snowfall.
According to FOX Weather, nearly 2.9 million residents are under a Lake-Effect Snow Warning until at least Monday, particularly affecting western and northern New York. Snowfall rates have been reported between 1 and 4 inches per hour, leading to substantial accumulations.
Interstate 90 is closed in both directions across Erie County, Pennsylvania, where the town of North East has recorded over 43 inches of snow by Sunday morning. While westbound lanes from Exit 57 to the Pennsylvania border have reopened, a ban on commercial travel remains in effect from Exit 46 to the state line.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency in several upstate counties as crews prepare for ongoing snowfall. In Pennsylvania, Governor Josh Shapiro has activated the National Guard to assist with stranded motorists and emergency responses.
Erie County Executive Brenton Davis has declared a snow disaster, warning that roads are hazardous and travel should only be undertaken in emergencies. Arctic air from Canada is contributing to the severe weather, with record-warm water temperatures in the Great Lakes.
Areas such as Barnes Corners and Copenhagen have reported up to 46 inches of snow. Buffalo, initially under the Lake-Effect Snow Warning, has since been excluded, although nearby communities may receive an additional 1-2 feet of snow through Monday.
The National Weather Service has cautioned that conditions can fluctuate rapidly, with heavy snowfall and reduced visibility expected. The ongoing storm is anticipated to affect the region, particularly the Watertown area, where snowfall rates could reach up to 4 inches per hour.
Forecasts predict total accumulations of 3-4 feet in certain areas, including southwestern New York and southern Erie County in Pennsylvania, as the storm continues into the workweek.