Winter Weather Warnings Issued Across Multiple States Ahead of Thanksgiving Travel

A series of winter weather warnings and advisories have been issued across various states in the U.S., posing significant challenges for travelers ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday. A winter storm is expected to bring the first widespread cold snap of the season, particularly affecting the Southern Plains and the lower Mississippi Valley, where temperatures are forecast to drop below freezing.

In the western United States, Washington state‘s western Okanogan County is under a winter storm warning through the mid-afternoon, with heavy snow and accumulations of up to five inches expected over Washington Pass. The West Slopes and the North Central Cascades and Passes can anticipate additional snow accumulations between four and eight inches at elevations greater than 4,000 feet. Travel on routes such as SR 20 and Washington Pass is expected to be very difficult due to heavy snow and gusty winds.

In Wyoming, a Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for the Teton and Gros Ventre Mountains, including Teton Pass and Togwotee Pass, from 2 PM on November 15 to 8 AM MST on November 16. Snow accumulations between 4 and 6 inches are anticipated over mountain passes, with localized amounts reaching 6 to 8 inches in the highest terrain. Travelers are advised to plan for extra time and exercise caution due to slick road conditions.

California is also experiencing winter conditions, with a winter weather advisory in place through Friday night in the central region. Moderate to locally heavy snowfall is forecast for areas around the Sierra Nevada mountains, and travelers are warned to be prepared for slippery roads and potential falls on icy surfaces.

In Alaska, a blizzard warning is in effect through early Friday in southwest Alaska, with blowing snow causing whiteout conditions and reducing visibility. Snowfall between four to eight inches and strong winds are expected in the area west of the Kuskokwim River and Kuskokwim Delta North residents.

On the East Coast, an area of low pressure may bring a potential wintry mix to Maine on Friday, although most of the country is expected to see seasonable to above-average temperatures on Thursday and Friday. Next week, the Great Plains are forecasted to experience another round of heavy rain and snow for the first time this season).