Cold and blustery conditions are set to impact much of the United States as millions prepare to travel for the Thanksgiving holiday. The forecast indicates significant snowfall across the Upper Midwest, where some areas might receive up to 2 feet of snow. Wind alerts are extended to about 52 million people from the Plains to the Great Lakes, affecting major cities including Chicago and Detroit, with gust speeds potentially reaching 60 mph.
Blizzard warnings are in effect for approximately 13 million individuals in northern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. In eastern regions near lakes Erie and Ontario, lake-effect snow warnings are anticipated as conditions worsen with incoming cold air. Northern areas of Wisconsin and Michigan could see as much as 3 feet of snow, while those downwind of the Great Lakes may receive 20 inches. As the storm moves eastward, snowfall is expected to peak in the Snow Belt along the south shore of Lake Superior.
Rain will transition to snow in southern and eastern areas by Thanksgiving morning, with additional bands of lake-effect snow expected to set up through Friday, particularly impacting the lower Great Lakes. A major lake-effect snowstorm is forecasted through Saturday, producing snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour, compounded by wind gusts exceeding 30 mph, resulting in extremely hazardous travel conditions.
The Pacific Northwest will also experience wet and snowy weather, affecting cities like Seattle and Portland. Meanwhile, temperatures will remain mild across the East Coast until a strong cold front moves through, ushering in colder air and gusty winds that could impact the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City.
By Friday, arctic air extends through the central and eastern United States, leading to freezing temperatures, especially in areas like the Florida Panhandle, alongside milder conditions in New England. In contrast, the Western U.S. is expected to maintain above-average temperatures during the Thanksgiving holiday, with the Pacific Northwest bracing for mountain snow and rain.
As travel plummets due to bad weather across the nation, disruptions have already begun; semitrucks have veered off roads in Minnesota, causing traffic congestion, while icy conditions have led to accidents in North Dakota. An estimated 73 million people intend to travel by car this Thanksgiving, marking a slight increase from last year. Traffic congestion is particularly evident around major metropolitan areas, including a significant backlog at the George Washington Bridge leading into New York City.
Travelers should consider driving early in the day or later in the evening to avoid peak traffic times. Of particular concern is air travel, with delays on the rise as nearly 2,300 flights within the U.S. experienced disruptions on Wednesday. Ground stops have been implemented at major airports, including Chicago O’Hare and Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, due to adverse weather conditions.
American Airlines and other carriers have been preparing for the holiday traffic surge, anticipating Wednesday will be among their busiest days. With weather-related challenges looming, airlines are relying on detailed contingency plans to navigate disruptions and keep travelers moving.
As Thanksgiving approaches, there is a collective sense of optimism that conditions will improve, particularly on Thursday. Most of the country is expected to see clear skies, with only limited rain in the Northwest and lake-effect snow affecting parts of the Great Lakes region. This provides a silver lining for holiday travelers looking to enjoy time with family and friends.