US: Adverse winter weather forecast to continue across the Great Lakes region through Dec. 13 /update 1

Adverse winter weather is forecast to continue across parts of the Great Lakes region through Dec. 13. Heavy lake-effect snowfall is expected to continue across the region late Dec. 12-early Dec. 13, before gradually tapering off through Dec. 13. Additional snowfall accumulations of more than 30 cm (12 inches) are expected across the Snow Belt of the lower Great Lakes, with the highest accumulations of over 61 cm (24 inches) possible in areas downwind of Lake Ontario. Hazardous travel conditions are likely due to reduced visibility caused by blowing snow.

As of Dec. 12, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued winter storm warnings across parts of northern and western Michigan and lake effect snow warnings for parts of northern and western New York. Winter weather advisories are in place for parts of central, northwestern, and southern Michigan, far northeastern Ohio, far northwestern Pennsylvania, and central and western New York. Officials could update and extend the coverage of the weather alerts over the coming hours.

Snow accumulations are likely across the affected region. Lesser accumulations are possible where sleet and freezing rain mix with the snow, and precipitation is less intense. In addition to the heavy snow, strong wind gusts will likely lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow in some areas. Sporadic power outages could occur throughout the affected region.

The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions across the region. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are probable along regional highways. Dangerous and challenging driving conditions are likely on secondary and rural roads in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities will probably close stretches of highways if driving conditions become too hazardous. Flight delays and cancellations are probable due to ground stops and deicing operations at regional airports.