Thanksgiving week is upon us, and major travel disruptions are anticipated across various parts of the country due to weather conditions. As families prepare to embark on their holiday journeys, here’s what to expect in the weather forecast.
On Monday, key airports such as Dallas, Houston, and Kansas City may face challenges during the day. Fog is expected to blanket areas in the Midwest, Deep South, and parts of the West, mainly affecting morning commutes and flights in cities like Louisville, Nashville, and Tampa. Simultaneously, substantial rain is forecasted across Texas and Louisiana, spreading into the upper Mississippi Valley. This could lead to flooding and severe thunderstorms, particularly impacting flight schedules at Dallas-Ft. Worth and Houston. Snow and strong winds are anticipated in the Northern Rockies, resulting in potentially hazardous driving conditions over mountain passes.
Tuesday’s forecast highlights the possibility of fog affecting major East Coast hubs, including Atlanta, Chicago, and New York City. Rain will extend from the Midwest towards the East Coast by day’s end, with thunderstorms in the Southeast. The Northern Plains will experience wind-driven snow, complicating travel on key routes such as Interstate 94 and Interstate 29. A new storm system is expected to bring rain and mountain snow to the Pacific Northwest and northern Rockies later in the day.
As travel peaks on Wednesday, rain may linger in the eastern U.S., particularly ahead of a cold front, leading to flight delays in the Northeast. Heavy lake-effect snow is projected for the Great Lakes region, creating challenging travel conditions, particularly in northern and western Michigan and parts of New York. Travelers in the Pacific Northwest should prepare for rainy weather and potential snow over mountain passes.
Thanksgiving Day will see lake-effect snow continuing in the Great Lakes snowbelts, with opportunities for dangerous whiteout conditions along critical interstates. Snow will also blanket the northern Rockies and possibly Montana’s High Plains, while rain and strong winds are forecast for the Pacific Northwest.
Friday brings another round of lake-effect snow to the Great Lakes, raising travel safety concerns. Snow is set to spread from Montana into the Northern Plains, potentially affecting major flight hubs by Friday night. Compounding this, thunderstorms may arise across the South from Kansas to Louisiana, presenting risks of heavy rainfall and flash flooding.
On Saturday, the possibility of a winter storm looms over the Midwest, with snow, sleet, and freezing rain leading to treacherous conditions. Severe thunderstorms may also impact the South, intensifying the need for care during travel. Meanwhile, some light snow is predicted in the Rockies.
By Sunday, the forecast remains highly uncertain, with various models suggesting a mix of rain and snow across the country. As the holiday weekend progresses, it’s advisable for travelers to stay updated on the weather conditions as forecasts evolve.
With the holiday season upon us, families are encouraged to prepare for varying weather conditions and allow extra travel time to ensure safe arrivals. Staying informed and flexible can help mitigate the challenges posed by Mother Nature this Thanksgiving week.