As the holiday season unfolds, the FOX Forecast Center is keeping a close eye on the weather trends leading up to Thanksgiving. With many Americans gearing up to travel and join loved ones, there are both sunny and stormy forecasts to consider.
This year, nearly 80 million people are expected to travel at least 50 miles, with the busiest travel days anticipated on the Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving, as well as the Sunday following the holiday. Fortunately, the weather for most of the country looks manageable for travelers as they set out to celebrate.
However, the West Coast is bracing for another round of rain and mountain snow as a series of low-pressure systems approach the region. While a recent atmospheric river event has passed, travelers should be cautious, especially in the higher elevations of the Cascades and Sierra Nevada. In lower elevations, heavy rain is expected, particularly through California, Oregon, and Washington, with the potential for significant rainfall in Central California exceeding 5 inches in some areas. While flash flooding isn’t currently a major concern, delays at airports and on the roads are expected in cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco.
As the system progresses eastward, cities such as Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, and Denver may also experience snow and rain by midweek. The impact on lower elevations will depend on the storm’s exact track, but mountain snowfall could be substantial.
In the Northeast, another storm system is approaching from the Plains, bringing winter weather advisories to parts of the Upper Midwest and northern New England. Although milder than previous storms, this system is still likely to cause disruptions, especially in terms of wind and rain along the East Coast, impacting travel on Interstate 95. The Northeast should expect rain into Tuesday, with the potential for snow along the Great Lakes.
As Thanksgiving approaches, a more significant winter storm is anticipated, likely affecting travel plans as families return home. This storm could bring heavy snow to inland areas of the Northeast, creating challenges for drivers and air travelers.
Looking forward, frigid temperatures are set to sweep across the United States post-Thanksgiving, as colder air from Canada makes its way southward. Parts of the northern Plains may experience frigid lows dipping down to -10 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating a sharp drop in temperatures compared to the preceding days.
Despite the potential for travel disruptions and colder weather, the spirit of the Thanksgiving season remains bright. Families nationwide are reminded to stay updated on weather forecasts and to plan their travel routes with care. Preparing for potential delays can contribute to a safe and joyful holiday experience, allowing everyone the chance to gather with loved ones and enjoy the festivities.