A powerful winter storm recently caused chaos across the Midwest, affecting millions during the busy Thanksgiving travel period. Two notable incidents stand out: a massive 45-car pileup in Indiana and a Delta flight that skidded off the runway in Iowa.
More than 25 million people were under winter weather alerts as the storm dumped over a foot of snow in some areas. For example, Fort Dodge, Iowa recorded 15 inches, and Lancaster, Wisconsin saw 13 inches.
According to the National Weather Service, a quick blast of snow reduced visibility and created dangerous travel conditions in Chicago. Indiana State Police reported no serious injuries from the pileup but urged residents to stay home if possible. Sergeant Matt Ames emphasized driving safely, suggesting people reduce their speed and ensure their seatbelts were fastened.
In Iowa, Delta Air Lines flight 5087 slid off the runway at Des Moines International Airport due to icy conditions. No injuries were reported, and Delta apologized to passengers for the inconvenience, emphasizing safety first. The Federal Aviation Administration is currently investigating the incident.
As the storm progresses, rain and snow are expected to move across the eastern US. Winter alerts are in effect for the interior Northeast, with predictions of 2 to 8 inches of snow.
Travel has been significantly disrupted. As of Sunday afternoon, over 4,200 flights were delayed, with 572 cancellations reported. Chicago O’Hare was particularly affected, experiencing over 250 cancellations and significant delays. Videos showing snow-covered runways went viral on social media, illustrating the storm’s severe impact.
User stories highlight the frustration many are feeling. Sisters Rima and Jasmin Eid faced multiple delays trying to catch a flight to surprise their mother for her birthday. Rima expressed her disappointment, noting that they received little assistance for rebooking. “It’s very frustrating and very upsetting,” Jasmin added.
Weather experts remind us that winter storms are becoming more frequent and intense. A recent study by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration noted that severe winter weather events have increased by approximately 25% over the last few decades. This trend underscores the importance of preparedness during the holiday season when travel peaks.
With travel impacted and safety at risk, it’s essential to stay updated on weather alerts and heed local authorities’ advice. Always check flight statuses and plan for extra time when heading to airports during winter storms.
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