As the United States braces for the Thanksgiving holiday, an incoming storm from the Rockies promises significant disruptions, prompting millions to reconsider their travel plans.
A late November storm is forecast to usher in severe weather across the U.S., affecting Thanksgiving week travel with snow, high winds, and freezing conditions, the New York Post reported.
Meteorologists project the storm to commence in the Rockies early next week, hitting Tuesday and Wednesday, and bringing severe weather conditions notably to the Northern Plains and Upper Mississippi Valley.
The storm will initially bring soaking rains and potential snowfall—the season's first—on the western peripheries. This shift to colder weather will profoundly affect the usual climate across these regions. From there, the storm will move eastwards and intensify over the Great Lakes starting Wednesday.
As the storm gathers strength, it will bring a distinct drop in temperatures to the Southern Plains and lower Mississippi Valley. This cold surge is expected to bring the first frosts as far south as the Gulf Coast, a rare phenomenon for this region that could lead to unusual weather patterns for local communities.
Toward the middle of next week, as the storm moves over the Great Lakes area, it will bring high winds, affecting large swathes of the Eastern United States. These wind threats become more pronounced towards Wednesday and Thursday, with the storm's center then predicted to move toward the mid-Atlantic, impacting even more of the Eastern U.S. coastline.
Moreover, across lakes Michigan, Erie, and Ontario, residents can expect significant wind speeds. Additionally, western Michigan, along with the Upper Peninsula and western New York, could experience heavy snowfall, exacerbating the already challenging travel conditions.
The storm's scope and timing could not be more problematic, coinciding with one of the busiest travel weeks of the year. The potential for severe weather including snow and high winds might greatly disrupt both air and road transportation options, with millions of Americans making their way to holiday destinations or family gatherings.
In addition, cold air will continue to pour over the Ohio Valley and into the northern mid-Atlantic and the interior Northeast during the latter part of the week. As this unfolds, there is some uncertainty about the availability of cold air for significant snowfall, which adds a layer of complexity to forecast models.
By the week's end, a sharp drop in temperatures across the North Plains and northeastern parts of the U.S. is expected, setting an unusually frigid backdrop for the holiday weekend. Consequently, the overall temperature drop will lead to a cold start for Thanksgiving week, reinforcing the storm's impact on popular traditions and daily life.
Furthermore, residents in affected areas are advised to prepare for sudden changes in weather, stay updated with the latest forecasts, and plan travel with considerable caution, accounting for potential delays and hazardous driving conditions. Moreover, state and local authorities are likely ramping up their readiness in response to the expected conditions, aiming to minimize disruptions and ensure public safety during this crucial travel period.
The convergence of dipping temperatures, heavy snow, and widespread winds highlights the storm's widespread impact, spanning much of the central and eastern U.S., serving as a stern reminder of winter's imminent arrival. As Thanksgiving approaches, travelers and hosts alike should remain vigilant and flexible with their plans, allowing for the weather’s unpredictable nature during this season.
