Record-breaking Thanksgiving travel faces potential weather disruptions across the United States, with nearly 80 million Americans expected to journey 50 miles or more for the holiday.
Unprecedented Travel Numbers and Weather Challenges
As Americans prepare for one of the busiest travel periods of the year, a record-breaking 80 million people are expected to journey 50 miles or more for Thanksgiving celebrations. This surge in travelers comes with potential weather-related challenges that could impact plans from coast to coast.
AAA says nearly 80 million people will travel over Thanksgiving, an increase of 1.7 million compared to last year. Aixa Diaz joined us to discuss the travel forecast: pic.twitter.com/O4QnYfjtcT
— The Weather Channel (@weatherchannel) November 18, 2024
The travel breakdown shows 71.7 million Americans hitting the roads, 5.84 million taking to the skies for domestic flights, and 2.3 million using other modes of transportation. This massive movement of people coincides with a series of weather systems that threaten to complicate travel plans.
Thanksgiving travel forecasts hit record 80 million as people plan to drive, fly and cruise through the holiday. https://t.co/XjjCGWTQNB
— Inc. (@Inc) November 18, 2024
West Coast Storm and Midwest Winter Weather
The West Coast is bracing for a significant weather event, with a winter storm warning in effect for Sacramento, California. The Sierra Nevada mountains are expected to see heavy snowfall, potentially creating hazardous driving conditions. Central California may experience over 5 inches of rain, likely causing travel disruptions in major cities such as Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.
“Nearly 80 million Americans are expected to travel at least 50 miles for Thanksgiving this year.” FOX Forecast Center
As the storm moves eastward, the Midwest and Great Lakes regions may face rain and snow on Monday. Wisconsin and Minnesota are expected to see snow showers on Wednesday, with particularly hazardous travel conditions predicted for the Dakotas.
Eastern Seaboard Precipitation and Temperature Fluctuations
The storm system is forecasted to bring rain to major East Coast cities, including Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., Charlotte, Atlanta, and New York on Tuesday. While temperatures in the eastern U.S. are expected to be warmer than average on Tuesday, a significant drop is anticipated by midweek.
“But a cold frontal passage by midweek will lead to highs near or a few degrees below normal.” National Weather Service
Thanksgiving Day itself may see precipitation in the eastern U.S., potentially disrupting traditional outdoor activities. There’s a possibility of snow in the Middle Mississippi Valley, Upper Ohio Valley, and Northeast by Thanksgiving Day, adding to the travel concerns.
Post-Thanksgiving Travel and Shopping Impacts
The challenging weather conditions are expected to persist beyond Thanksgiving, potentially affecting Black Friday shopping plans and return travel. The FOX Forecast Center warns of a cold air invasion from Canada in the days following Thanksgiving, bringing some of the coldest temperatures of the season to much of the country.
“The FOX Forecast Center expects some of the coldest air of the season to invade the U.S. from Canada in the days after Thanksgiving and into the start of December.” FOX Forecast Center
Despite these challenges, the National Retail Foundation anticipates a record number of shoppers, with 183.4 million expected to participate in holiday shopping activities from Thanksgiving through Cyber Monday. Travelers and shoppers alike are advised to stay informed about weather conditions and prepare for potential disruptions to their plans.
Planning for Safe Holiday Travel
Given the expected weather challenges, travelers are encouraged to plan, allow extra time for their journeys, and stay updated on local forecasts. Those flying should be aware that some of the most weather-delayed airports during the holidays include San Francisco, Newark, LaGuardia, Seattle-Tacoma, and Boston Logan.
While the weather forecast presents challenges, the FOX Forecast Center offers some reassurance, stating, “A majority of Americans from coast to coast should arrive at their Thanksgiving destinations without too many issues.” However, vigilance and flexibility will be key for travelers navigating this busy holiday season.
Sources:
https://www.themirror.com/news/us-news/thanksgiving-weather-storms-snow-rain-822697
https://www.foxweather.com/weather-news/thanksgiving-week-travel-forecast-us
