A major storm bringing snow and rain to the eastern United States may disrupt Thanksgiving plans. Flight, road, and public transportation delays.
After millions of Americans braved bumper-to-bumper traffic and airport crowds to get to their destinations on Thanksgiving, a major storm is sweeping across the eastern United States, bringing snow and rain. Flight delays, clogged roads and public transport disruptions are expected, similar to the annual holiday.
According to the Transportation Security Administration, over 30 million passengers will be traveling between this Friday and the Tuesday after Thanksgiving.
Here is a breakdown of the areas that are most likely to be impacted by this severe weather.
Source: AccuWeather
New York weather update:
Strong winds are expected to continue, with the National Weather Service (NWS) issuing a Wind Advisory for East Suffolk County, where gusts of up to 50 mph are possible. The entire coastline is under coastal flood warnings. AccuWeather predicts a rain, snow, and sleet mix for parts of upstate New York on Tuesday, particularly in Albany and areas northward.
Wyoming weather update:
A winter storm watch is in effect until Friday morning, with wind gusts of up to 30 mph and snowfall of six to twelve inches expected. Travel conditions may be difficult and late in the afternoon and evening of Thanksgiving.
Michigan weather update:
After some clearing, a cold front is expected, bringing temperatures down into the 30s on Friday. Weather conditions can change quickly, so travelers should be prepared.
New Hampshire, Maine, and Vermont weather updates:
Between Tuesday night and Wednesday, a storm system moving from the southern Plains to the Northeast is expected to dump 3 to 7 inches of snow on parts of Maine, Vermont, and northern New Hampshire. While rain is expected today, Thanksgiving should be mostly sunny.
While a wet Thanksgiving week is expected in Florida, the National Weather Service predicts mostly dry conditions on Thanksgiving Day. Today, isolated areas in the Carolinas may experience severe thunderstorms.
“Plenty of snow and ice” is currently nestling in Vermont, but the NWS has predicted that temperatures will slightly warm, with some areas expecting temperatures above freezing. Yesterday, the National Weather Service said: “We’ve got plenty of snow and ice across the region right now, but temperatures are expected to warm up tomorrow morning, with many areas outside eastern Vermont likely above freezing.”
As snow and rainfall across the eastern United States, some travel plans are likely to be disrupted. Flight delays are common at this time of year, and travelers also clog roads and public transport. The annual traffic jam on the 405 Motorway was once described by the Los Angeles Times as a “symbol of America’s holiday travel mayhem.”
According to the American Automobile Association, over 50 million people are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home, with today expected to be one of the busiest days ahead of Thanksgiving tomorrow.
In some parts of Florida, a wet Thanksgiving week is expected, but showers are expected into the weekend, with a mostly dry Thanksgiving Day predicted. The National Weather Service’s Miami office predicted that the big day will be “partly sunny” during the day, with clouds expected in the evening.
Over the weekend, there is a slight chance of showers. Today could see severe thunderstorms in isolated areas of the United States. Despite these obstacles, planning ahead of time and staying up to date on local weather forecasts can help ensure a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving celebration. If you’re traveling, consider changing your plans based on the weather in your area and staying up to date on official weather advisories. Happy Thanksgiving and safe travels!
