Thanksgiving Week Weather Forecast Across the U.S. (Update)

Thanksgiving Week Weather Forecast Across the U.S.

Weather Conditions for Thanksgiving Week

Thanksgiving week is shaping up to be a busy and potentially challenging time for travelers across the United States, with forecasters predicting a mix of weather conditions that could disrupt plans for millions. According to AAA, nearly 80 million Americans are expected to journey at least 50 miles from home during this holiday, making it one of the busiest travel periods of the year.

Weather conditions are expected to vary widely by region, with some areas bracing for "messy" weather. Cold temperatures, strong winds, and heavy rain will impact many parts of the country. The Great Lakes region and the Northeast are particularly at risk of snowstorms starting the day after Thanksgiving and extending through the weekend, which may complicate travel and shopping plans. Cities like Buffalo and Boston could see significant snowfall, while rain and wind might hit areas farther south.

Meanwhile, the West Coast, especially California, will continue to experience rain, adding to already saturated ground from earlier storms. In contrast, regions like the Southwest are forecasted to have clear skies, providing a respite from weather-related challenges.

Travelers are urged to remain vigilant and plan ahead, as post-Thanksgiving conditions may also pose difficulties. With cold weather extending into the weekend, keeping an eye on updated forecasts is crucial for a safe and smooth journey.

Thanksgiving Week Weather Forecast by Region

Northeast

Dates Affected: November 25-30

The Northeast is bracing for a series of winter storms that have already dropped over a foot of snow in parts of Upstate New York and northeastern Pennsylvania. Cities like New York, Boston, and Washington, D.C., may experience delays due to ongoing snowfall and rain. Additional snowfall is expected by Thanksgiving Day, particularly in northern New Hampshire, Maine, and the Adirondacks.

Key Tips:

• Check flight statuses regularly as airport delays are likely.
• Prepare for snow-covered roads in affected areas.

Southeast

Dates Affected: November 26-29

The Southeast will start the week with moderate rainfall, with heavy showers predicted on November 28 (Thanksgiving Day). Cities along the coast, including Charleston and Savannah, may also experience gusty winds. Snow is unlikely, but cooler temperatures will prevail.

Key Tips:

• Carry rain gear if you’re traveling by road.
• Monitor updates for coastal wind advisories.

Midwest

Dates Affected: November 25-27

The Midwest will encounter rain transitioning to snow early in the week, especially around the Great Lakes. Thanksgiving Day could see lingering precipitation in Illinois, Michigan, and Wisconsin, affecting both road and air travel.

Key Tips:

• Avoid traveling during peak snowstorm hours.
• Be cautious of icy patches on less-traveled roads.

Southwest

Dates Affected: November 24-30

The Southwest is expected to enjoy a mild Thanksgiving week, with no significant weather disruptions. Sunny skies and moderate temperatures will dominate in cities like Los Angeles, Phoenix, and Las Vegas.

Key Tips:

• Perfect time for outdoor gatherings.
• Check local air quality if engaging in outdoor sports.

Northwest

Dates Affected: November 25-28

The Pacific Northwest remains under threat from consecutive storm systems. Following a recent "bomb cyclone," heavy rain and snowfall are expected across Washington and Oregon. Travelers should remain alert for potential landslides and flooding in lower altitudes.

Key Tips:

• Avoid mountainous regions unless necessary.
• Stay updated on local emergency alerts.

How Will Snow Affect Major Cities?

Northeast

• New York City: While heavy snow is expected in Upstate New York, New York City itself might see mixed precipitation, including rain and light snow. Travel delays are likely at major airports like JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark. Commuters should prepare for slick roads and limited visibility.
• Boston: Snow accumulation is more likely here, particularly in northern Massachusetts and nearby regions. Roads could become hazardous, and Logan International Airport may experience delays or cancellations.
• Philadelphia and Washington, D.C.: A mix of rain and snow is anticipated, which could lead to slushy roadways and minor travel interruptions.

Midwest

• Chicago: A major hub for air and rail travel, Chicago is likely to face significant snowfall. O'Hare and Midway airports could see delays, and road travel may be impacted by icy conditions, particularly in surrounding suburbs.
• Detroit: Heavy snow is expected, which could affect flight schedules and road conditions. The city’s location in the Great Lakes snowbelt heightens the risk of lake-effect snow, leading to unpredictable accumulation.

West

• Seattle and Portland: While snow is less likely in the cities themselves, surrounding mountain passes may experience heavy snowfall. This could impact travel routes into and out of these cities.
• Denver: Snowfall in the Rockies could affect Denver International Airport, with delays expected during peak travel days.

Precautions for Travelers

• Flight Cancellations: Check with airlines frequently and consider rebooking if snow is forecasted.
• Road Travel: Keep emergency kits, drive cautiously, and plan routes around snow-prone areas.
• Local Activities: Allow extra time for commuting and consider adjusting outdoor plans to account for weather-related disruptions.

Snowfall in these major cities and surrounding regions underscores the importance of staying informed and planning ahead to minimize inconvenience.

Which Regions Should Prepare for Snow?

Which Regions Should Prepare for Snow

Several regions across the United States should prepare for snow during Thanksgiving week. Here's a regional breakdown of areas likely to experience snowfall:

1. Northeast

• Expected Areas: Northern New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, with potential snowfall extending into parts of Massachusetts and Pennsylvania.
• Details: Heavy snow is likely in the Adirondacks, Green Mountains, and northern parts of the region. Cities like Buffalo and Albany may see significant accumulation due to lake-effect snow.
• Impact: Slippery roads, reduced visibility, and travel delays in major hubs like Boston and New York City suburbs.

2. Midwest

• Expected Areas: Great Lakes region, including Michigan, northern Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota.
• Details: Snowfall will likely intensify due to lake-effect conditions. Chicago, Detroit, and Cleveland are at risk of accumulating snow during peak travel days.
• Impact: Delays at key airports like O’Hare and Detroit Metro, icy highways, and hazardous driving conditions.

3. Northwest

• Expected Areas: Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, particularly in higher altitudes.
• Details: Mountainous regions, including the Cascades and Rockies, will see heavy snowfall, potentially affecting cities like Spokane and Boise.
• Impact: Dangerous mountain passes (e.g., Snoqualmie Pass), potential road closures, and travel difficulties for those heading to ski resorts.

4. Rockies

• Expected Areas: Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, and Montana.
• Details: Denver and surrounding areas could see snow, especially near the Rockies. Ski destinations in Utah and Colorado are likely to experience fresh powder.
• Impact: Delays at Denver International Airport and treacherous road conditions on mountain routes.

5. Upper Plains

• Expected Areas: North Dakota, South Dakota, and parts of Nebraska.
• Details: Snowfall is likely as a storm system moves across the plains. Fargo and Rapid City may experience disruptions.
• Impact: Strong winds may create blizzard-like conditions, reducing visibility and complicating travel.

Preparation Tips

• Monitor local forecasts for storm updates.
• Have winter gear ready, including snow tires and emergency kits for vehicles.
• Check flight and travel advisories frequently, especially if passing through snowy regions.
• Plan alternative routes and allow extra time for delays.

Travelers in these regions should exercise caution and prepare for potential disruptions due to snowfall.

Will Airports be Impacted by Nnow?

Yes, several major airports in the U.S. are likely to be impacted by snow during Thanksgiving week, which could lead to delays and cancellations. Here's a detailed breakdown of potential disruptions:

Northeast

1. Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)

   • Risk: Snowfall is likely in Boston and surrounding areas, especially northern New England.
   • Impact: Potential for delayed or canceled flights, particularly during heavy snow periods on Thanksgiving Day.

2. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), and LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

   • Risk: Rain, strong winds, and light snow may create difficult conditions.
   • Impact: Slippery runways, delays, and visibility challenges for arriving and departing flights.

3. Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF)

   • Risk: Lake-effect snow could cause significant accumulation.
   • Impact: Delays and cancellations are likely due to heavy snowfall.

Midwest

1. Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)

   • Risk: Snowstorms and freezing temperatures are forecasted.
   • Impact: Major delays and potential cancellations, as Chicago is a critical hub for connecting flights.

2. Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW)

   • Risk: Snowfall and icy conditions are expected.
   • Impact: Icy runways and reduced visibility may delay departures and arrivals.

3. Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)

   • Risk: Moderate to heavy snow could disrupt travel, particularly earlier in the week.
   • Impact: Cancellations and delays likely.

Northwest

1. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)

   • Risk: While snowfall in Seattle itself is unlikely, surrounding areas and mountain passes could see snow.
   • Impact: Potential travel delays for connecting flights to snow-affected regions.

2. Portland International Airport (PDX)

   • Risk: Snow in higher altitudes and rain in the city could complicate travel.
   • Impact: Limited disruption at the airport, but travelers heading to mountain regions may face challenges.

Rockies

1. Denver International Airport (DEN)
   • Risk: Snowfall and high winds from Rocky Mountain storms are possible.
   • Impact: Delays for both incoming and outgoing flights, especially during peak storm activity.

Preparation Tips for Travelers

• Check Flight Status Frequently: Use airline apps or websites for real-time updates.
• Allow Extra Time: Arrive earlier than usual to navigate delays and increased holiday traffic.
• Pack Essentials: Carry extra clothing, chargers, and snacks in case of extended delays.
• Consider Travel Insurance: Covers unexpected cancellations or delays due to weather.

Airports in snow-prone regions will experience varying levels of disruption, so travelers should stay informed and plan accordingly.

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