Winter Storm Ezra Wreaks Havoc Across U.S. Northeast and Great Lakes, Stranding Travelers and Causing Power Outages

Published on December 30, 2025

A powerful winter storm continued its journey across the U.S., bringing frigid temperatures, heavy snow, and strong winds to the Great Lakes and Northeast regions on Tuesday. This followed a bomb cyclone that wreaked havoc across the northern U.S. and left tens of thousands of customers without power. The storm, which intensified rapidly, prompted officials to issue severe weather warnings, as dangerous travel conditions and hazardous weather persisted throughout the day.

Storm Intensifies Into a Bomb Cyclone

The storm that moved across parts of the Plains and Great Lakes on Monday brought a sharp drop in temperatures and a mix of snow, ice, and rain. Forecasters quickly identified it as a bomb cyclone, a rare and severe weather event where a storm’s pressure drops rapidly, causing it to intensify and bring extreme conditions. The storm’s swift strengthening led to significant disruptions, including dangerous travel and power outages.

As the bomb cyclone moved into Canada, the National Weather Service predicted continued adverse conditions in the Eastern U.S., including the possibility of snow squalls. These sudden bursts of heavy snow, accompanied by gusty winds, were expected to cause additional travel problems, particularly in the state of New York.

Power Outages and Treacherous Travel Conditions

By Tuesday morning, more than 153,000 customers were reported to be without power nationwide, with a large portion of those outages concentrated in Michigan. The power outages affected both residential and commercial customers, disrupting daily activities and complicating recovery efforts. In Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, snow accumulation was particularly severe, with some areas receiving up to 2 feet (60 centimeters) of snow, according to the National Weather Service.

Travelers in the affected areas faced treacherous conditions on the roads. As the storm brought snow and ice to the region, numerous accidents were reported, and officials warned residents to avoid unnecessary travel. New York Governor Kathy Hochul issued a warning that whiteout conditions were expected in parts of the state, including the Syracuse metro area, urging people to stay off the roads if they could.

Historical Lake Conditions and Rare Winds

Lake Superior’s waves reached an estimated height of 20 feet (6 meters) on Monday, forcing all but one cargo ship to seek shelter in nearby harbors. MarineTraffic.com reported that the fierce waves on the lake caused significant disruption to shipping activities. Fortunately, advances in weather forecasting since the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald in 1975 have improved predictions for such conditions.

Along with the snow and ice, the fierce winds on Lake Erie created a unique phenomenon, with water surging toward the eastern end of the lake near Buffalo, New York, and retreating on the western side in Michigan. This receding water exposed normally submerged lakebed areas, revealing remnants of old piers dating back to the 1830s. Kevin Aldrich, a maintenance worker from Monroe, Michigan, shared images on social media showing wooden pilings sticking up from the muck where, in normal conditions, the lake would typically be 12 feet deep.

Extreme Wind Chills and Dangerous Wind Gusts

Across parts of North Dakota and Minnesota, wind chills plummeted to as low as minus 30°F (minus 34°C) on Monday. These extreme conditions made it dangerous for those exposed to the elements, with frostbite and hypothermia risks increasing. In northeast West Virginia, nearly hurricane-force winds were recorded on a mountain near Dolly Sods, adding to the widespread weather challenges.

Iowa also experienced blizzard conditions that continued into Monday morning. Though snow flurries eventually subsided, high winds continued to blow the fallen snow across the roads, leading to the closure of over 200 miles (320 kilometers) of Interstate 35. Dozens of crashes were reported, with one fatality occurring during the storm.

West Coast Weather Warnings

The weather was not only harsh in the eastern and northern parts of the U.S. The National Weather Service also issued warnings for parts of Southern California, where moderate to strong Santa Ana winds were expected to create further challenges. The strong winds were a particular concern in areas that had already been saturated by recent storms, raising the risk of downed trees and additional power outages.

As the storm system continues to move eastward, two more storms are forecast to hit the West Coast later this week. Rain is expected on New Year’s Day, threatening to dampen the Rose Parade in Pasadena for the first time in two decades. Organizers and participants are bracing for the possibility of rain disrupting the long-standing New Year’s tradition.

Ongoing Impacts and Precautions

As Winter Storm Ezra continues to batter the U.S., residents in affected areas are being urged to remain vigilant. The storm’s widespread effects on travel, power, and daily life have underscored the importance of preparedness during the winter months. Authorities across multiple states have been working to manage road closures, keep power lines intact, and ensure the safety of citizens as they navigate the difficult conditions.

With more snow, ice, and dangerous wind conditions expected, travelers are advised to stay updated on the latest weather reports and to avoid unnecessary travel when possible. Emergency services are on high alert, and authorities continue to coordinate efforts to restore power and clear roads for safer conditions.

As the bomb cyclone dissipates and more storm systems approach, it remains crucial for residents in affected regions to remain aware of the evolving situation. Despite the challenges, communities across the U.S. are bracing for continued harsh weather, and preparation will be key to managing the ongoing disruptions.