The US Postal Service has warned that 24 states and D.C. will see shipping delays due to winter weather and flooding, and here’s who is affected
If you haven’t completed your online holiday shopping yet, you might be out of luck. Winter weather has caused delivery delays in several states nationwide.
A winter storm swept across multiple states this week, covering roads and sidewalks with snow. Even after the snowfall ceased, a cold weather warning remained in effect for various parts of the southeast as temperatures plunged below 20°F.
Washington State experienced severe flooding due to heavy rain, prompting widespread evacuations. Two levees failed during the weather event, leading to dangerous flash floods. A National Weather Service flood watch continues to be in effect.
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These conditions have affected USPS shipping, which means some of your Christmas presents may not arrive in time.
Which states are experiencing USPS shipping delays?
According to an update from USPS, winter weather is causing delays in 24 states and the District of Columbia. They include:
- Alaska
- Montana
- North Dakota
- South Dakota
- Minnesota
- Wisconsin
- Iowa
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kentucky
- Ohio
- Virginia
- West Virginia
- Michigan
- Pennsylvania
- Massachusetts
- Maryland
- District of Columbia
- New York
- New Jersey
- Vermont
- Connecticut
- Rhode Island
- New Hampshire
- Maine
Flooding is also causing delays in two states. Hawaii and Washington State could see disruptions in the processing, transportation, and delivery of mail and packages.
What’s the final day to order packages to ensure they arrive before Christmas?
USPS has posted deadlines for its various mail services to inform people when they need to order gifts to ensure they arrive by Dec. 25. Although weather is now affecting 24 states, consumers outside of those states might still be able to receive their packages on time.
The deadlines are:
- USPS Ground Advantage Service – Dec. 17
- First-Class Mail Service – Dec. 17
- Priority Mail Service – Dec. 18
- Priority Mail Express Service – Dec. 20
For residents of Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Territories, USPS deadlines differ. They are:
- USPS Ground Advantage Service – Dec. 16
- First-Class Mail Service – Dec. 17
- Priority Mail Service – Dec. 18
- Priority Mail Express Service – Dec. 20
Is my post office open?
The USPS website provides information on residential service disruptions in various states, including closures of local post offices.
As of December 15, the Stehekin Post Office at 31 Defacto Lane is temporarily shut down due to flooding. During this interruption, customers can access their mail and avail retail services at the Chelan Post Office located at 144 E. Johnson Ave.
You can find updates on more recent disruptions on the USPS website. If your area has been impacted by weather conditions, it’s recommended to check with your local post office for confirmed operating hours.
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