Travel activity is surging this week as millions make their way to their holiday destinations for Thanksgiving. While many are expected to enjoy a smooth trip to their gatherings, returning home could pose challenges, particularly for those in the eastern United States, especially in the Northeast.
According to forecasts, a winter storm is set to impact travel significantly as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches. As another storm hits the West with heavy rain and mountain snow, a fast-moving system is affecting the Upper Midwest, and soon after, areas in the Southeast and Northeast can expect rain from the same weather front. An even larger storm is anticipated to disrupt holiday plans significantly on Thanksgiving Day.
As the FOX Forecast Center notes, a low-pressure system is expected to traverse parts of the Midwest and the Ohio Valley, moving into the Northeast. The most severe weather conditions are predicted to occur north of this system, where colder air is expected to bring snowfall.
Snow is forecasted across a vast stretch from Iowa to Maine, concentrating in the interior Northeast, with regions such as upstate New York, the Green Mountains in Vermont, the White Mountains in New Hampshire, and parts of Maine likely to experience noteworthy accumulations. Travelers along the I-81 and I-90 corridors, particularly in cities like Syracuse, Buffalo, and Binghamton, may face challenges from the winter weather as snow could disrupt traffic through Thanksgiving and into Black Friday.
Meanwhile, areas to the south can anticipate heavy rain and potential severe weather. Storms could impact travelers in the Tennessee Valley and Southeast, with strong thunderstorms causing heavy rain and damaging winds.
The forecast indicates that post-Thanksgiving travel could also be hampered by lake-effect snow. As the winter storm moves out of the Northeast, cold air from Canada is projected to plunge temperatures, creating conditions conducive for increased lake-effect snow across the Midwest and Great Lakes region.
Travelers are advised to stay updated and plan accordingly, as changes in the forecast are likely. The FOX Weather app is a useful resource for real-time updates on weather conditions leading into Thanksgiving.
The good news is that while travel may be tricky, this serves as an opportunity for travelers to adjust their plans ahead of time. Adequate preparations and flexibility could help ensure safe and enjoyable holiday experiences for everyone.
In summary, while Thanksgiving travel may come with its share of weather challenges, travelers can stay informed and proactive to navigate these conditions successfully.