Severe Snowstorm Hits Erie, Pennsylvania, Stranding Residents and Travelers
ERIE, PA — A powerful lake-effect snowstorm swept through western New York and Pennsylvania on Saturday, leaving over two feet of snow in its wake and creating hazardous travel conditions. In Erie, residents experienced the worst of the storm, with some areas receiving nearly 50 inches of snow. Kimberly Stolar, a lifelong Erie resident, described the situation: “I’m just trying today to ignore the fact that I can’t get out of my house, and just be thankful for what I have inside.”
The National Weather Service reported that the heaviest snowfall occurred along Interstate 90, which stretches from Buffalo to Cleveland, disrupting post-Thanksgiving travel plans and stranding vehicles on highways. Forecasts suggest that some areas could see snowfall totals reach up to six feet by Tuesday morning. Regions affected included Erie, along with parts of northern Michigan, eastern Ohio, and western New York, where accumulations of around 30 inches were common.
Scenes from Erie highlighted the storm’s impact, as deserted streets replaced the normally bustling downtown. Residents were confined to their homes, with many motorists trapped on secondary roads after being barred from Interstate 90. The National Guard was mobilized in both New York and Pennsylvania to assist with emergency services.
In response to the challenging conditions, temporary shelters were set up for the stranded travelers, where several hundred people took refuge. Erie County Executive Brenton Davis noted the extraordinary circumstances, emphasizing the community’s resilience in the face of nature’s wrath. As the snow continues to fall, residents remain hopeful for safer conditions ahead.
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