A major lake-effect snowstorm hit the Northeast, with nearly four feet of snow falling in some areas by early Sunday. More snow was expected, with another 6-18 inches forecast from Cleveland to New York and Pennsylvania. Some areas in New York recorded over 40 inches of snow, leading to travel chaos and road closures. The bitter cold air over the Great Lakes was causing the heavy snowfall.
The storm prompted a disaster declaration in Pennsylvania, where parts of interstates 86 and 90 were closed and the National Guard was called in to assist stranded drivers. Governor Josh Shapiro signed the declaration for Erie County as the state transportation department worked to clear the roads. The coldest air of the season so far was also moving across the Midwest and East, with temperatures plunging and blustery winds expected.
As the NFL Buffalo Bills prepared to host the San Francisco 49ers in Orchard Park, New York, on Sunday night, weather conditions were challenging, with below-freezing temperatures, winds, and snow flurries. The area had seen almost two feet of snow in the last day. The storm presented a unique challenge for road crews and residents in the affected areas were urged to stay off the roads. The winter weather marked the start of “meteorological winter,” with astronomical winter beginning later in December.
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