Lake-effect snow could dump 6 feet on Great Lakes states this week

The coldest air of the season will unleash a days-long lake-effect snow event from Michigan and Wisconsin to Pennsylvania, New York and Ohio in the days following Thanksgiving. AccuWeather meteorologists warn that in some areas, the snow will be so intense it could strand motorists and close major highways.

Within the snow bands, "we expect snowfall rates of 2-3 inches per hour with locally 5 inches per hour, which can close major roads such as interstates 79, 81, 86 and 90, to name a few in the eastern Great Lakes," AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jonathan Porter said.

Sections of major highways, such as 75 and I-196 in Michigan, may also close. Road crews may struggle to keep up with the snow in some areas, which can be complicated by heavy traffic during the extended Thanksgiving holiday weekend.

For those who have not experienced lake-effect snow, within the snow bands, blizzard conditions can occur, and feet of snow can pile up where the bands persist. Outside of the snow bands, only flurries or a clear sky are sometimes the case, which can lead to a false sense of security or create dramatically different conditions from one mile to the next when traveling on the highway.

"Should a traveler become stranded, the situation can quickly escalate to a life-threatening emergency given the conditions," Porter warned.

Temperatures may plummet through the 20s and into the teens with AccuWeather RealFeel® Temperatures 15-30 degrees lower, factoring in gusty winds that often accompany the lake effect. Snow could block the exhaust systems of some stranded vehicles, raising the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning to occupants.

Stiff winds can push the snow around, creating whiteout conditions and leading to mountainous drifts that can easily cover vehicles and home entrances.

Highmark Stadium, located in Orchard Park, New York, is home to the Buffalo Bills football team. The team's next home game is scheduled for Sunday evening, and heavy snow could be a factor for those attempting to get to the event and drive home afterward. From 6 to 12 inches of snow may have already fallen by the scheduled start of the game.

Total snowfall for the entire lake-effect event Thursday night to Tuesday could reach 72 inches or 6 feet.

Accuweather's coverage of the event is here .



(AP Photo Joshua Bessex)