As the holiday season unfolds, the FOX Forecast Center is keeping a vigilant eye on the weather conditions leading up to Thanksgiving, coinciding with one of the busiest travel days in the U.S. Tens of millions of Americans are expected to hit the roads and airways to gather with loved ones, creating a high demand for seamless travel.
Travel forecasts indicate that most individuals will reach their Thanksgiving destinations without significant delays, although some adverse weather could affect the return journeys toward the weekend. Approximately 80 million travelers are anticipated to cover at least 50 miles, especially on the peak travel days of Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving, as well as the following Sunday.
On the West Coast, another series of low-pressure systems are poised to bring additional rain and snowfall, particularly to higher elevations in the Cascades and Sierra Nevada. Travelers in these mountainous areas are advised to exercise caution while driving. While lower areas will primarily experience rain, forecasts suggest that some regions in Central California could receive up to five inches of precipitation. Although flash flooding is not a significant threat at this stage, potential disruptions at major airports, including those in Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, should be anticipated.
As the weather system travels eastward, it is expected to impact parts of the Rockies, increasing the likelihood of rainfall and snow accumulation in cities like Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, and Denver. The mountains could see significant snow, measured in feet, depending on the system’s trajectory.
In the Northeast, another storm front has moved across the Plains and is currently advancing toward the Great Lakes region. Although this system appears to be less intense, Winter Weather Advisories have been issued for states in the Upper Midwest and northern New England. Major cities such as Chicago and Milwaukee are likely to escape significant snowfall, though wind conditions may result in delays at local airports.
As the low pressure continues to gain strength on its journey toward the Northeast, rain is anticipated to affect travel along the I-95 corridor. While light snow is possible in areas around Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, the primary disruption is expected to stem from rain, reduced visibility, and potential wind-related delays.
Looking ahead to Thanksgiving Day, a more potent winter storm is predicted to sweep into the Northeast, bringing heavy snow to certain areas and complicating travel as families return home. Extreme cold will follow in the days after Thanksgiving, with sub-zero temperatures likely in parts of the northern Plains.
Overall, while the weather may pose some challenges for travelers this Thanksgiving, responsible planning and awareness of changing conditions can help ensure that families and friends can come together to celebrate the holiday season safely.
The anticipation of gatherings, despite potential weather hurdles, serves as a reminder of the importance of connection during this time of year.