Illustration of Thanksgiving Travel Alert: Winter Storms on the Horizon

Thanksgiving Travel Alert: Winter Storms on the Horizon

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With the Thanksgiving holiday approaching, travel is ramping up as millions across the United States prepare to either hit the roads or take to the skies. While many are expected to reach their destinations without issues, the journey home could pose challenges, particularly for travelers in the eastern U.S., especially in the Northeast.

As the workweek unfolds, the FOX Forecast Center is closely monitoring various weather systems affecting travel routes. A significant storm is currently impacting the West with heavy rain and mountain snow, while another system is causing winter weather disruptions in the Upper Midwest. This system is also predicted to bring rain to the Southeast and Northeast, escalating into a more substantial weather event as Thanksgiving approaches.

The forecast warns of a Thanksgiving Day storm that may create travel difficulties lasting into Black Friday and beyond. A low-pressure system is expected to move from the Midwest through the Ohio Valley and into the Northeast. The most severe winter weather is anticipated north of this system, where colder air will trigger snow, especially across the interior Northeast from Iowa to Maine.

Prominent locations likely to be affected include upstate New York, Vermont’s Green Mountains, New Hampshire’s White Mountains, and parts of Maine. Interstate travel along major corridors like I-81 and I-90 is expected to be significantly impacted by winter weather, particularly in cities such as Syracuse, Buffalo, and Binghamton.

While snow will be the primary concern in the northern regions, southern areas may contend with heavy rain and potential severe weather, particularly in the Tennessee Valley and Southeast. Travelers returning home could encounter delays, especially at major airports like Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson, where storm-induced flight disruptions are expected.

Though this Thanksgiving winter storm may not produce substantial snow totals, it could signal the start of a more active lake-effect snow season across the Midwest and Great Lakes. As a surge of cold air follows the storm, temperatures are projected to drop significantly, keeping conditions ripe for lake-effect snow in areas downwind of the Great Lakes.

As travelers gear up, it is crucial to stay informed about the weather. Downloading the FOX Weather app and enabling notifications can provide timely updates as the holiday approaches, ensuring travelers can plan accordingly amidst the shifting weather patterns.

This holiday season, while the potential for travel disruptions looms, it also presents an opportunity for families to bond over shared journeys and experiences that can turn challenging moments into lasting memories. By remaining prepared and aware, travelers can navigate the elements and make the most of their Thanksgiving celebrations.

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