LIMA — If you have travel plans for Christmas Eve — or are trying to finish shopping — be aware that a winter storm could make traveling by air or by land a bit of a hassle.
AAA expects a record 107.3 million Americans, including nearly 4.5 million Ohioans, will journey 50 miles or more from home between today and Jan. 1.
AccuWeather reports that as millions take to the roads or prepare to fly to their destinations, winter storms will be on the prowl in the central and eastern United States through Christmas morning.
They say while no intense storms are forecast, there will be areas of rain, ice and snow affecting heavily populated areas and popular travel routes.
The National Weather Service is expecting very cold air to enter the picture on Christmas Day with some snow accumulations possible this weekend into early next week.
High temperatures are only expected in the teens and low temperatures in the single digits, possibly dropping below zero in some areas. Wind chills are expected to be below zero at times.
“With the weather dropping as low as it is potentially forecasted, it’s definitely of a moderate concern,” said Tom Berger, Allen County Emergency Management Agency director.
Berger is also urging those planning travel around the Christmas holiday to prepare a survival kit in case of a breakdown.
“As folks head out this weekend, we always tell folks to make sure that they have good windshield wipers on their vehicle. Make sure the windshield washer reservoir is full and then look on the outside of the car and make sure your tires are good and when you head out on the road, that the windows are clear and visible, no ice or snow on the windows that would impact your visibility. Inside the car we always recommend that folks pack an extra blanket, car charger for your cell phone, maybe some extra food items, some kitty litter or some dry sweep, so if you do slide off the road you can use that to give you some traction,” Berger said.
Berger also recommends slowing down as road conditions deteriorate.
AccuWeather reports that if you’re traveling by air, expect possible delays due to deicing operations throughout the mid-west including the I-75 corridor.
Snow is expected to cover the ground from areas as far west as Omaha, Nebraska to Toronto on Sunday.
Another storm will bring snow to the mid-Atlantic and New England Areas Sunday night to Christmas Day.
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