Snowstorm Causes Flight Cancellations and Delays in Chicago

A winter storm in Chicago has led to the cancellation of over 1,500 flights nationwide. The combination of severe weather and the ongoing government shutdown has resulted in travel disruptions for many passengers.

As of 6:30 a. m. local time, 367 flights have been canceled at Chicago’s O’Hare International and Midway airports, according to FlightAware, a company that tracks airline data. While snowfall totals are still being compiled, the town of Momence, Illinois, located about 50 miles south of Chicago, has reported receiving 12 inches (30 centimeters) of snow. David Roth, a senior branch forecaster at the US Weather Prediction Center, stated that a band of lake effect snow is currently sweeping through northern Chicago, but the worst of the storm is over for most of the area. Gusty winds may cause some blowing snow and temperatures are expected to rise to 34F (1C), resulting in some melting.

In total, Chicago is expected to receive up to 4 inches of snow, significantly less than the previously forecasted 12 inches. Roth predicts that, aside from the North Side of Chicago, the storm is mostly over.

The winter storm has only added to the flight cancellations and delays caused by the ongoing government shutdown. Late on Sunday, the US Senate voted 60-40 to advance a bill that may end the record-breaking shutdown.

In addition to the snow in Chicago, cold temperatures are sweeping across the central and eastern US, potentially breaking 39 records for the date. The Weather Prediction Center reports that the South will be most affected by the cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing in cities like New York, Atlanta, and Tallahassee, Florida. However, the cold spell is expected to be short-lived, with milder temperatures returning later this week.

Overall, the combination of the winter storm and the government shutdown has resulted in travel disruptions for many passengers. As the government shutdown continues, it is important for travelers to keep track of flight updates and make necessary adjustments to their travel plans.