Stormy Thanksgiving ahead in US: Back-to-back storms and rain poised to disrupt travel plans for millions

AccuWeather is predicting a turbulent Thanksgiving week as back-to-back storms are expected to cause significant disruptions to travel plans for millions of Americans. With a record 79.9 million people expected to travel this holiday season, the commercial forecasting firm predicts stormy weather across the United States will lead to delays, especially on the busiest travel days of the year.

Stormy weather across the US

The forecasting company’s leading long-range expert Paul Pastelok advises travelers to prepare for a stormy Thanksgiving week. “Brace yourselves, we’re looking at a stormy pattern for Thanksgiving week,” Pastelok said. “Wet and wintry weather may slow families traveling ahead of Thanksgiving.”

According to the release, the worst weather will occur in the days leading up to Thanksgiving Day, with rain, snow and gusty winds affecting regions across the country. Travelers can expect significant delays due to the poor conditions, especially in the West Coast, Northeast and parts of the Midwest.

Thanksgiving Day Weather Forecast

AccuWeather is forecasting a mix of rain, snow and thunderstorms to affect various regions of the United States on Thanksgiving Day:

Gulf Coast & Southeast: Showers and thunderstorms will affect the western and central Gulf Coast, while parts of the Mississippi and Ohio valleys may experience rain.

Northwest and Four Corners: Rain and snow showers are expected to slow travel in these regions.

Northeast: Morning showers are expected in the Northeast coastal area with showers in parts of Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire and upstate New York.

Southeast: Florida and parts of the Southeast will experience warm and dry conditions, with air conditioners likely moving across the region.

Impact on travelers

For those traveling ahead of Thanksgiving, the weekend is expected to bring significant weather risks. Rain and mountain snow is expected to affect the west coast, while a slow-moving storm will bring gusty winds and a mix of rain and snow to the northeast.

Tuesday (November 26) and Wednesday (November 27), expected to be the busiest travel days, are likely to experience wet and slippery conditions. A storm will track across the eastern United States, spreading rain and snow showers over the Great Lakes. Cities like Chicago, Detroit, Cincinnati and St. Louis may face periods of rain, making driving conditions hazardous.

Black Friday and shopping weather on holiday

Shoppers headed for Black Friday sales should prepare for wet weather, especially in the eastern United States. Thunderstorms and rain are forecast for the Gulf Coast to the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast. The Northern Plains and Upper Midwest will experience colder weather, with snow showers possible in cities such as Salt Lake City, Denver and Minneapolis. There is also a chance of a rain and snow mix in the Northwest, which could complicate shopping plans.

Winter sports outlook

The forecast also notes that the early season storms will bring much-needed snow to ski resorts in the West and Northwest. The first atmospheric flurry of the season, combined with recent storms, has allowed resorts to open early, making for a strong start to the ski season. Pastelok expects a good winter for skiers and snowboarders across the West and Inland Northwest.