Millions of Americans returning home from the Thanksgiving holiday may face travel disruptions as a massive winter storm, bringing heavy rain and snow, sweeps across the country. Considered the busiest travel day of the year, Sunday may see significant delays and challenges for travelers.

The storm first began impacting the Chicago region on Sunday morning, with snowfall reducing visibility and potentially causing flight delays at O'Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport. Such delays could have a ripple effect on travel plans throughout the United States.

The inclement weather is expected to spread to other major cities, potentially exacerbating the travel situation. In Detroit, a chilly rainfall is predicted throughout the day, possibly mixed with wintry conditions. Cleveland has a similar forecast, with cold rain anticipated throughout Sunday.

Further along the I-95 corridor in the Northeast, cities such as Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and New York City will see the development of rain beginning on Sunday afternoon. The heaviest rain is forecasted to occur overnight and into the early morning hours of Monday. New York City can expect rain to start after sunset, around 5 p.m.

While Atlanta, another significant travel hub, is not expected to experience major problems, the possibility of rain showers later on Sunday cannot be ruled out.

In states like Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, widespread rainfall ranging from 1 to 2 inches is anticipated. The storm's snowfall, however, will be confined to higher elevations in northern New England, particularly in the mountains of Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Up to 2 feet of snow could accumulate in these areas.

By Monday morning, the storm will have largely moved out of the Northeast, except for residual rain in northern New England. Yet, western New York communities should brace themselves for lake effect snow as the system departs. Cold air rushing in behind the storm will create conditions for heavy snowfall as it passes over the relatively warm waters of the Great Lakes.

The National Weather Service has issued lake effect snow warnings for the eastern shores of Lake Ontario and Lake Erie. On Monday and Tuesday, heavy snow bands are expected to form, causing near-whiteout conditions at times. The localized nature of these snow bands means that snow amounts will vary, but some communities may accumulate up to 2 feet of snow in the coming days.

Travelers are urged to stay updated on the latest weather conditions, flight statuses, and road conditions. It is advised to consider potential delays and make necessary adjustments to travel plans to ensure safety and minimize disruptions.

As the storm progresses, authorities will continue to monitor and provide updates to keep communities informed and prepared for the wintry conditions ahead.