The National Weather Service (NWS) warned that Thanksgiving travel in the eastern half of the U.S. could face disruptions due to “messy” weather, including the potential for the coldest temperatures of the season. Millions of travelers are expected to encounter challenges on the roads and at airports.
Forecasters highlighted the possibility of moderate to heavy precipitation, particularly in the Tennessee and Lower Ohio Valleys, Appalachians, and Mid-Atlantic regions during the midweek period, complicating plans for holiday travel.
In addition to rain, wintry conditions are anticipated in the northern Plains and higher elevations of the West. Heavy snowfall is predicted in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, where up to 3 feet may accumulate, and the Colorado Rockies, which could receive 1 to 2 feet of snow. These conditions could significantly impact travel and outdoor activities in these areas as the storm system moves eastward.
Thanksgiving Travel Faces Major Disruptions from Cold, Snow, and Rain Across Eastern U.S.
East of the Rockies, a high-pressure cold front is expected to bring below-average temperatures, plunging much of the region into the coldest conditions experienced this fall. This cold air mass is likely to dominate Thanksgiving week, affecting states across the Midwest and Northeast. The colder-than-normal temperatures could also intensify the impacts of any precipitation in these regions, forecasters said.
The East Coast, including New York City, may see snow or rain during Thanksgiving festivities. With Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade set to draw large crowds, concerns have been raised about challenging weather conditions such as strong winds and potential precipitation.
AccuWeather highlighted the possibility of “unsafe conditions” for the giant parade balloons due to high winds, which could alter or disrupt planned festivities.
The combination of rain, snow, high winds, and cold temperatures could create significant travel and event disruptions.
Forecasters emphasized that those traveling locally or long distances during the Thanksgiving holiday should prepare for potential delays and difficult conditions, especially in the Midwest, Northeast, and along the East Coast. Black Friday shoppers, too, may face complications from lingering storm effects and brisk weather.
