APPLETON, Wis. (WFRV) Dozens of cars ended up in ditches in the Valley. In Outagamie County, more than 40 vehicles spun out since the start of the storm and that number continues to grow. Travel was just one issue today. We asked Local 5's Bret Lemoine check conditions. He tells us streets were just the beginning of problems for many today.
While many took is slow out on the roads Thursday, few took it slower than Simon Santos. "It's been horrible," he says. "We found out this morning our flight had been canceled. There's no other flights coming in until Sunday morning."
After spending more than 4 hours stranded at the airport during an already busy travel week, Santos is opting to drive to Chicago to get another flight home to New Jersey. "It's going to be a long drive, with roads and everything else. It's going to be bad."
Others who made it on one of the few planes to land at ATW, made the most of a snowy situation. "I haven't seen snow in a while, I live in Arizona. I'm enjoying it. I know I'll get home eventually. I'm not worried," said traveler Mary Myllyla.
But fewer people on the roads meant fewer people out at other traditionally busy areas like the Fox River Mall. "I was expecting a lot more people, but it's easier for both of us so I can get our stuff done." Steve Graf spent part of his afternoon with his granddaughter hunting for last-minute Christmas gifts. It proved challenging, because only two dozen stores remained open past 5:30 PM. Graf says the worst part was getting there. "It was pretty much what you guys were reporting. Right on the money," he said.
The malls marketing manager tells us the loss of revenue from Thursday won't impact what's been a strong year for overall sales. But this weekend could be even busier as shoppers make the most of the last few days before Christmas. Another round of snow hit during Thursday's commute, along with strong winds. Most hope to dig out by Friday morning. Regular mall hours are expected to resume Friday and morning flights are currently on time.
