PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — The Northeast was getting ready Tuesday for its first major snowstorm of the season, just as the Midwest began to escape snow and ice that snarled travel after the Thanksgiving holiday.

Some parts of northern New England were expecting up to 10 inches (25.4 centimeters) of snow. A windy, potentially icy storm was heading to the region and could soak some areas while piling snow in others, according to forecasters.

The National Weather Service issued winter storm warnings and winter weather advisories across states including Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont, Maine, Connecticut, and New York ahead of the snow’s arrival.

Days prior, over 8 inches (20.32 centimeters) of snow fell at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, setting a record for the highest single calendar day snowfall in November at that airport since 1951.

Snow in the Great Lakes region was tapering off, but the new storm was set to move towards the mid-Atlantic and Northeast, with up to a foot (30 centimeters) predicted by Tuesday according to National Weather Service meteorologist Andrew Orrison, who emphasized the significance of this first snowfall.

In response to the impending storm, coastal Maine issued warnings urging residents to delay travel if possible. New Hampshire’s Department of Transportation has also started its own lighthearted winter initiative, inviting residents to submit names for its second annual 'name-a-plow' competition.

As the snowstorm looms, Pennsylvania is preparing for significant snowfall, treating lanes along its turnpike system in advance of the storm. The state plans to impose vehicle restrictions on many interstates starting Tuesday morning.

Meanwhile, travelers in the Midwest are still reeling from last week’s delays with several airports facing difficulties due to ongoing weather conditions. Chicago O'Hare saw extensive delays as passengers coped with the consequences of the winter storm as they attempted to return home after the holiday weekend.