Millions of Americans face Thanksgiving travel disruptions due to a suite of severe weather events sweeping across the country.
This holiday week, a combination of a winter storm in Minnesota, continuous rainfall in the West, and a looming storm in the Northeast threatens the plans of some 80 million travelers, Fox Weather reported.
The FOX Forecast Center actively monitors the evolving weather conditions, highlighting the widespread impact these disturbances are expected to have. As people begin their holiday journeys, the center stresses the importance of staying updated on weather patterns to avoid mishaps.
Multiple weather systems converge this week, creating a complex forecast scenario for travelers. Conditions worsened in Minnesota on Monday as a significant winter storm caused numerous crashes on Interstate 94 near Rothsay.
Winter weather advisories are now in effect for the Upper Midwest, including northern New England, as more snowfall is anticipated. The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is expected to receive substantial lake-effect snow, which could further impact road conditions and delay travel.
Moreover, colder temperatures in the Great Lakes region are already causing delays, primarily due to windy conditions. Cities like Chicago and Milwaukee are particularly affected, prompting travelers to consider possible delays and allow extra time.
In the West, recent weather patterns have included severe conditions such as an atmospheric river, impacting travel routes. Although those conditions have subsided, new storm systems are approaching, promising more rain and snow across various regions.
The mountainous areas of the Cascades and Sierra Nevada are preparing for snow, while lower elevations can expect continued rainfall. Central California might see rain totals reaching up to five inches, introducing potential travel disruptions in major cities like Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.
The majority of Thanksgiving travel is expected to occur before the holiday itself, primarily on Tuesday and Wednesday, with a second wave on the following Sunday. However, weather issues are forecasted to intensify as travelers prepare to return home, especially towards the weekend.
A significant winter storm is set to strike the Northeast towards the end of the week. Travel disruptions are expected to begin with rain before Thanksgiving, affecting those making early holiday travels.
In addition to the immediate precipitation, a powerful winter storm is approaching for the post-Thanksgiving period, projected to bring heavy snow to the interior Northeast and New England regions. This storm could severely impact return travel plans.
Following the Thanksgiving festivities, a drastic drop in temperatures is projected as a cold air mass from Canada affects most of the U.S. The northern Plains, in particular, could experience lows reaching -10 degrees Fahrenheit, an unusual turn that could extend the spell of travel interruptions.
Taking all these factors into account, weather experts advise travelers to plan meticulously this Thanksgiving week. Real-time tracking of storms and updates on weather advisories will be crucial for ensuring safe and punctual itineraries amidst a notably unpredictable weather landscape.
