Archive · 1 Dec 2025
Winter Storm Disrupts Thanksgiving Travel
A big winter storm is happening in the United States, from Montana to Ohio.
The National Weather Service says there will be a lot of snow and ice, which can make driving and flying difficult.
Some places, like Northern Iowa, already have more than 8 inches of snow.
Chicago got a record-breaking 8.4 inches of snow, which is the most for a November day.
This storm caused many flights to be canceled, especially at Chicago's O'Hare Airport, where hundreds of flights were delayed or canceled.
The FAA says the heavy snow and ice, along with holiday travel, are making things very busy and hard for everyone.
Travelers are having a tough time getting to their destinations for Thanksgiving, while airlines are trying their best to manage the situation.
Winter storm sweeping across the Midwest, causing heavy snow and hazardous conditions.
At least 450 flights canceled across the U.S., with 179 cancellations at Chicago's O'Hare Airport.
O'Hare recorded 8.4 inches of snow, surpassing the previous record for the snowiest November day.
Snowfall in the Chicago metro area ranged from 7 to 10 inches as of Sunday morning.
FAA issued an operations plan noting heavy snow, ice, and holiday travel as major constraints.
- Who
- National Weather Service, FAA, Airlines, Travelers
- What
- Winter storm causing heavy snow and flight cancellations
- When
- Saturday morning to Sunday morning
- Where
- From Montana to Ohio, with significant impact in Chicago
- Why
- Heavy snow and freezing rain expected to disrupt travel
Travelers
Airlines
Flight Cancellations
Travelers
Travelers are facing significant disruptions and delays, making it difficult to reach their destinations for Thanksgiving.
Airlines
Airlines are working to manage the situation, but the severe weather conditions are beyond their control.
- Affected Regions
- Montana to Ohio, with significant impact in Chicago
- Snowfall Rate
- More than 1 inch per hour in some areas
- Snowfall in Northern Iowa
- More than 8 inches by Saturday morning
- Record Snowfall in Chicago
- 8.4 inches, surpassing the previous record of 8.0 inches
- Flight Cancellations
- At least 450 flights canceled across the U.S., with 179 cancellations at O'Hare early Sunday
- Issued By
- National Weather Service, FAA
Sources
Winter Storm Warning in US: Heavy Snow and Ice Hit Millions Returning From Thanksgiving
Arctic Blast incoming: US braces for Earth’s coldest December chill, 235 mn Americans to be affected
Thanksgiving travel disrupted: Winter storm slams Chicago O’Hare with record snow, hundreds of flights cancelled
Weather alert—Cold wave and snowstorm in New York, Chicago disrupt travel plans post Thanksgiving; check NWS advisory
Delta plane’s winter storm scare forced US airport to close amid record Thanksgiving travellers prediction
US weather alert: Are schools closed today? Heavy snow batters multiple states – New York City under Nor'easter scare
