Thanksgiving Storm Threatens Travel Plans for Millions

NEW YORK – A coast-to-coast storm is poised to disrupt Thanksgiving travel plans for millions next week, with forecasts predicting that 82 million people will hit the road, rail, or air.

The storm will begin developing on Monday, Nov. 24, bringing heavy rain to the southern Plains and potentially affecting the Southeast and mid-Atlantic regions by Tuesday. AccuWeather meteorologist Alex Sosnowski highlights that delays could be significant as travelers prepare for one of the busiest times of the year.

As the storm pushes eastward, it will bring periods of thunderstorms and downpours from Iowa to Texas. Areas along the Interstate 30 corridor can expect heaviest rainfall, which could hinder ground travel and contribute to flight delays at airports in Austin, Dallas, and Little Rock.

Beyond the southern states, a separate system will bring snow to parts of North Dakota, Minnesota, and Michigan, complicating travel in those areas from Monday through Wednesday. Lighter snow accumulations are likely in southern regions.

AccuWeather Lead Long-Range Meteorologist Paul Pastelok warns, “The best chance of severe weather will be in the South Central and Southeastern states.” Meanwhile, major airport hubs like Chicago and Philadelphia are likely to face delays and cancellations.

By midweek, as colder air begins to flow south from Canada, travelers in parts of the northwestern Rockies could encounter snow, with gusty winds impacting travel conditions in Montana and Wyoming.

Additionally, an atmospheric river is forecast to bring moisture to the Pacific Northwest, raising the risk of flooding and difficult travel conditions in western Washington and northwestern Oregon. “This region could face some of the most severe impacts from the weather in the days leading up to Thanksgiving,” said meteorologist Reneé Duff.

Upon Thanksgiving Day, eastward-moving precipitation may result in a mix of rain and snow across parts of the Great Lakes and Northeast, likely coinciding with high traffic volumes. Travelers should prepare for possible road closures and flight delays.

AccuWeather insights reveal that significant disruptions are imminent, especially for drivers in the Midwest and Northeast as winter weather conditions could create hazardous travel environments. The forecast emphasizes the need for advance planning as families prepare for the holiday.