Thanksgiving Weather Update: Rain and Snow Expected Across the U.S.
Upcoming Weather Forecast Ahead of Thanksgiving
Multiple weather fronts will bring rain and snow to the Midwest, Southeast, mid-Atlantic, and Northeast before Thanksgiving week. This period is also one of the busiest travel times of the year.
Rain and Thunderstorms in the Plains
Central and southern Plains will experience rain and thunderstorms. Flood watches will affect 4 million people from northwest Texas to central Oklahoma. Severe weather, including 60 mph winds and possible tornadoes, is likely in West Texas cities such as Abilene and Midland. The Dallas-Fort Worth area may see impacts affecting 7 million people.
Pacific Northwest Weather Event
Expect a significant weather event in the Pacific Northwest. Starting Monday, an atmospheric river will bring 5 inches of rain and at least 3 inches of snow to parts of Oregon and Northern California. This storm is expected to reach AR3- or AR4-level strength, indicating heavy precipitation.
Snow and Cold Fronts
Snow is likely in areas like Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wyoming following the atmospheric river. Low pressure systems will spread into the Midwest, Southeast, and Northeast, pulling in colder air. This will lead to temperatures dropping and the possibility of snow toward the weekend before Thanksgiving.
Cooler temperatures and rain will arrive on the East Coast later this week. A major winter storm could develop, leading to rain and snow accumulation in the mid-Atlantic and southern New England. Snowfall may be limited to higher elevations and interior regions of the Northeast, but up to 6 inches is possible.
Looking Ahead to Thanksgiving Travel
Forecasters predict cold rain and snow on the East Coast during Thanksgiving week. Significant holiday travel is expected, with American Airlines anticipating nearly 8.3 million passengers. The National Retail Federation expects 183 million shoppers at brick-and-mortar stores during the holiday week.
While the weather may affect travel plans, it is still early to determine its full impact on travel and shopping during the holiday season.