US Winter Weather Nightmare Grips Minnesota, North Dakota, Wisconsin, New York, And More, With Snow Accumulations Of Up To A Foot Causing Widespread Travel Disruptions Across 14 States

Published on December 11, 2025

A severe storm is causing snow accumulations of up to a foot in 14 states, including Minnesota, North Dakota, Wisconsin, New York, and more, creating a winter weather nightmare. Major highways and airports have experienced numerous travel disruptions due to the storm’s heavy snowfall and icy conditions, including road closures, accidents, and flight delays. Authorities have been forced to issue advisories and warnings due to these hazardous weather conditions, advising travelers to avoid the roads while snow removal efforts are ongoing. As the storm intensifies, similar disruptions are likely to occur in more states, making thousands of people’s travel plans even more difficult.

A fast-moving winter storm has swept through the United States, leaving heavy snowfall and dangerous travel conditions in its wake. Winter storm warnings and advisories have been issued across 14 states, stretching from the Midwest to New England. This powerful storm, which began earlier in the week, has significantly impacted travel plans and daily routines, prompting warnings for residents and travelers alike.

Meteorologists from the National Weather Service (NWS) have reported that two separate storm systems merged to bring substantial snowfall across the affected regions. Snow accumulations ranged from an inch to nearly a foot, with the heaviest snowfall concentrated over the Midwest, upper Great Lakes, and parts of the mid-Atlantic and Northeast. The storm’s effects have been most severe in states such as Minnesota, North Dakota, Wisconsin, and parts of Wyoming and Montana.

Severe Weather Impacting Travel

The storm’s intensity caused significant disruptions to travel, especially across roads and highways. In Minnesota, the overnight snowfall led to treacherous driving conditions, contributing to hundreds of accidents and incidents on state highways. Local authorities reported more than 550 crashes, some involving spinouts, with at least one fatality. Vergas, Minnesota, recorded 9 inches of snow, while other states such as North Dakota and Wisconsin saw 11 and 7.5 inches, respectively. The hazardous conditions have made traveling through these areas extremely difficult and dangerous.

The storm’s effects extended beyond just the roads. Airports in the affected states have experienced significant delays and cancellations, particularly in major hubs like Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Flights have been delayed or canceled due to low visibility, icy conditions, and snow accumulation on runways. Travelers are advised to check with airlines for updates on their flight statuses before heading to the airport.

School Disruptions and Public Safety Warnings

The severe weather has also led to school closures and delays in numerous districts, particularly in Minnesota. With roads becoming increasingly hazardous, many school districts were forced to push back opening times, allowing for more time to clear snow and ensure the safety of students and staff. In addition, public safety warnings have been issued, urging residents to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. The NWS continues to monitor the situation, with additional advisories expected to remain in effect through Wednesday for several states.

Local authorities have been working around the clock to clear snow from major roadways, but the intensity of the storm has made it a challenging task. Plows and snow removal crews have been prioritizing main routes, although secondary roads remain coated with a layer of ice and snow, making them difficult to navigate.

Snowfall Projections and Continued Threats

The winter weather system, which began as a clipper storm in the Upper Midwest, is now moving eastward into the Interior Northeast. Areas of Upstate New York and northeast Ohio could see up to a foot of snow as the storm continues to track eastward, with up to 6 inches of additional snow expected to accumulate in parts of Iowa and Kentucky by Thursday. The storm’s progression is expected to bring more travel disruptions, with snow continuing to affect major highways and interstates.

While the storm is predicted to clear the region by the end of the week, the aftermath of the snowstorm will linger. Travel delays are expected to continue as snow removal efforts progress, and icy conditions may persist on untreated surfaces. Travelers planning to head to or from affected areas in the coming days are urged to exercise caution and prepare for potentially lengthy delays.

Advice for Travelers and Residents

For those planning travel in the coming days, it is important to stay updated on weather forecasts and road conditions. The National Weather Service has advised travelers to avoid unnecessary travel during the worst conditions, especially in areas where winter storm warnings are in effect. Travelers should also be prepared for possible disruptions at airports, as flights may be delayed or canceled due to snow and ice.

Residents in affected areas should take precautions to protect themselves from the cold, including dressing in layers and ensuring their vehicles are equipped for winter conditions. It is also advised to have emergency supplies on hand, such as blankets, food, and water, in case of power outages or extended travel delays.

While the storm has brought a wave of winter weather to much of the United States, it also serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of traveling in harsh winter conditions. Planning ahead and staying informed is essential to minimizing the risks and ensuring safe travel during the winter months.

A powerful winter storm is causing widespread disruptions across 14 U.S. states, including Minnesota, North Dakota, Wisconsin, and New York, with snow accumulations of up to a foot. These hazardous conditions have led to dangerous travel delays, road closures, and flight cancellations, forcing authorities to issue warnings and advisories.

The winter storm affecting large portions of the United States has made travel particularly hazardous across many states, with severe snow accumulation and ice covering major highways and airports. The impact has been felt most in the Midwest, Northeast, and parts of the mid-Atlantic, with dangerous road conditions leading to numerous accidents and disruptions. While the storm is expected to move eastward, travelers are advised to stay updated and prepare for possible delays and cancellations in the coming days. As winter weather continues to challenge travel across the country, safety remains the top priority for authorities and travelers alike.