The holiday season is bustling, and the FOX Forecast Center is keeping a close eye on the weather as millions across the U.S. prepare for Thanksgiving travel and gatherings. Most Americans should reach their destinations with ease, but the conditions may change as the weekend approaches, potentially creating challenges for those returning home.
This Thanksgiving, nearly 80 million people are expected to travel at least 50 miles, with peak travel anticipated on the Tuesday and Wednesday preceding the holiday, and the Sunday afterwards.
For those in the West Coast, more rain and mountain snow are on the horizon as another set of low-pressure systems moves in. Though the recent atmospheric river event has ended, travelers should be cautious as additional precipitation, primarily in the form of rain for lower elevations, pushes through states like California, Oregon, and Washington. Central California could see significant rain, possibly exceeding 5 inches in some areas. While flash flooding isn’t a major concern, travelers might still experience disruptions, particularly at major airports including Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.
As the storm system moves eastward into the Rockies, cities like Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, and Denver may also experience precipitation by midweek. In higher mountain areas, snow totals could accumulate significantly, while the impact at lower elevations will depend on the storm’s path.
Meanwhile, a separate storm system is moving into the Great Lakes region from the Plains. Although not as menacing as previous storms, this system has stirred Winter Weather Advisories across the Upper Midwest and northern New England. Regions like the Upper Peninsula of Michigan may see increased snowfall due to lake-effect conditions, while cities like Chicago and Milwaukee are likely to escape most of the snow, facing only potential wind-related travel delays.
As this weather system strengthens into the Northeast, rain is expected to create travel slowdowns on major highways into Thanksgiving. The heaviest precipitation will likely occur along the Interstate 95 corridor, which encompasses major travel hubs. A subsequent cold front moving through the Southeast may bring rain and thunderstorms, causing possible delays in airports in Atlanta and Charlotte.
Looking ahead, forecasters anticipate a powerful winter storm moving into the Northeast on Thanksgiving Day, extending into the weekend. This system could bring heavy snow to central areas and significant rain along the coast, potentially complicating post-holiday travel significantly.
Lastly, following the holiday, the U.S. is expected to experience a major drop in temperatures as cold air sweeps down from Canada, ushering in some of the coldest conditions of the season.
Overall, while the forecast includes challenges, the opportunity remains for families to enjoy a fulfilling Thanksgiving with the potential for beautiful winter scenery as snow blankets the mountains and holiday cheer abounds. Travelers should stay informed and prepared to navigate changing weather conditions, ensuring a safe journey during this festive time.
In summary, while weather conditions may present obstacles for travel during Thanksgiving, anticipation of possible picturesque winter landscapes and the communal spirit of the holiday season can encourage everyone to embrace the journey ahead.