A severe blizzard has led to highway closures and school cancellations across northwest Minnesota and eastern North Dakota, with dangerous whiteout conditions, high winds, and plunging temperatures expected to persist, prompting widespread travel advisories and emergency measures.
The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has imposed travel restrictions on several highways due to a significant snowstorm expected to hit the region. Trailers and towed vehicles are banned from certain sections of highways, including I-70, US 285, US 40, US 6, and I-25, from Friday afternoon to Saturday morning to prevent accidents and road closures. The storm has already caused over a foot of snow in some areas, leading to flight cancellations and accident alerts. Travelers are advised to avoid the affected areas until the storm subsides.
Colorado has adopted a new transportation policy that focuses on reducing greenhouse gas emissions by limiting highway expansions and promoting alternative transit options. This shift, driven by a 2019 law requiring a 90% reduction in emissions within 30 years, marks a significant change in the state's approach to transportation planning.
Heavy traffic on Interstate 93 north in New Hampshire, particularly in the Hooksett area and Franconia Notch, continued ahead of the eclipse, with state officials gearing up for increased traffic on Monday evening. Visitors flowing into the state caused backups on highways, and officials are closely monitoring traffic conditions along I-93, I-95, and I-89, advising travelers to prepare for longer drives and ensure they have food, water, and sufficient gas.
President Biden announced a $3 billion funding initiative to reconnect communities divided by highways and infrastructure projects, aiming to improve access to essential services and opportunities while addressing the historical impact on predominantly Black and brown communities. During a campaign speech in Milwaukee, Biden emphasized the transformative impact of the projects, which will be funded by the infrastructure law and Inflation Reduction Act. The announcement comes as Biden continues his post-State of the Union campaign blitz in crucial battleground states, including Wisconsin, where he also addressed criticisms from former President Trump and Wisconsin Senator Ron Johnson.
Heavy snowfall in northern England caused chaos on highways, with motorists seeking shelter or spending the night in their cars. The snow also knocked out power to over 2,500 customers. Trucks jackknifed, blocking roads, and drivers reported taking hours to complete short trips. Emergency services worked to rescue stranded motorists, while schools, churches, and a scout hut provided emergency shelter. Electricity was expected to be restored by late Sunday night. The Met Office issued a weather warning for ice in several regions.
A 13-vehicle crash involving 10 vehicles and three commercial vehicles shut down a two-mile stretch of highways near Richfield, Ohio. The closure lasted for nearly four hours before the roads were reopened. Multiple non-life-threatening injuries were reported, and crews are still on the scene. The crash occurred due to icy roads and low visibility caused by winter weather conditions. Richfield Police Department advised people to stay off the roads until the weather subsides and the streets are cleaned up.