A new wave of lake-effect snow hit parts of the northern United States on Wednesday, marking the seventh consecutive day of storm activity, with some areas accumulating over 5 feet of snow.

According to an update from the National Weather Service, intense “lake-enhanced” snow is predicted for regions south of Lakes Erie and Ontario on both Wednesday and Thursday, and heavy snowfall is also expected in parts of Northern New England. The strong winds could lead to blizzard conditions in certain locations.

In Erie, Pennsylvania, where the snowfall has already reached as much as 5 feet, an additional 2 feet may fall by Friday. In Watertown, New York, which has also received significant snow recently, forecasts indicate a lower total of around 10 inches more.

Michigan has experienced over a foot of snow in the past day and could receive another 6 inches or more.

Latest Updates:

∎ The severe cold affecting much of the Midwest and Northeast is fueled by a new burst of Arctic air. Forecasters predict that this front will move through more quickly compared to the prolonged cold wave encountered during Thanksgiving weekend and the start of this week. Temperatures are expected to rise starting this weekend.

∎ Cold air will spread eastward and southward, with temperatures forecast to be 10 to 15 degrees below average in some Mid-Atlantic and Southeastern regions. However, a warming trend is expected early next week.

Schools shut down across the region

The heavy snowfall has led to multiple school closures throughout the region. Students and parents have been monitoring daily notifications as educators and administrators try to schedule school days when feasible. In Erie, all public schools were closed on Wednesday as local street crews worked to clear the roads. There will be no flexible instruction day, and no in-person or virtual classes will take place.

Texas prepares for possible power grid stress

The expected extreme cold in Texas this winter may put a strain on the state’s electricity grid in early 2025, similar to the challenges experienced four years ago, according to the chief meteorologist of the grid operator. The February 2021 Storm Uri caused widespread blackouts, affecting millions and leading to over 240 fatalities. In response, Texas began to overhaul its grid system to improve reliability.

Chris Coleman, chief meteorologist at the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, referenced ocean and atmospheric conditions that are comparable to those during early 2021. He noted that the current weather patterns “could lead to a situation similar to Uri this winter.”

While cold snaps in Texas are becoming more frequent, the overall average winter temperatures tend to be warmer, Coleman added. Last winter was noted as the 11th warmest for the state since 1895, according to data from the National Weather Service.