Thanksgiving travel is ramping up this week as millions take to the roads and airports to kick off the holiday season. While most travelers can expect a smooth arrival at their destinations, the return journey may pose challenges, particularly for those in the eastern United States, especially the Northeast.
The FOX Forecast Center is actively tracking weather conditions that may hinder travel from coast to coast. A substantial storm is currently moving through the West, delivering heavy rain and mountain snow, while another fast-moving system is already affecting the Upper Midwest.
As we approach Thanksgiving, this weather system is anticipated to bring rain and potentially heavy snow to the Southeast and Northeast regions. A significant storm is expected on Thanksgiving Day itself, which could create last-minute travel difficulties that may persist into Black Friday and the weekend.
Forecasters predict that an area of low pressure will sweep through the Midwest and Ohio Valley on Thanksgiving, with the most disruptive weather likely occurring north of this system. Snow is expected to fall across areas from Iowa to Maine, particularly in the interior Northeast, where notable accumulations are anticipated in regions like upstate New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and parts of Maine.
Travelers on the road should be cautious, as conditions along major corridors such as Interstates 81 and 90 in New York could be severely affected by snowfall. Cities including Syracuse, Buffalo, and Binghamton may experience significant weather disruptions.
Meanwhile, the southern regions, particularly the Tennessee Valley and Southeast, could also be impacted, facing heavy rain and severe thunderstorms that could bring damaging winds.
As travelers head home, delays in major airports, including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, are likely as storms progress through the region.
While this Thanksgiving storm is not projected to drop exceptionally high snow totals, it may signal the arrival of lake-effect snow events throughout the Midwest and Great Lakes as a blast of frigid air enters from Canada, leading to rapidly dropping temperatures over the weekend.
Travelers should remain vigilant and stay updated through reliable weather sources, including the FOX Weather app, to navigate these wintery conditions more effectively as they return home from their holiday celebrations.
In summary, while Thanksgiving travel might come with its share of weather-related challenges, staying informed can help mitigate the stress, allowing families to look forward to a joyful holiday season filled with gratitude and connection despite the weather.