Winter Storms Disrupt Thanksgiving Week Travel Across U.S.

By Web Desk — As the U.S. heads into the Thanksgiving week, a series of winter storm warnings are stretching from California to the East Coast. These storms, expected to bring snow and cold weather, could disrupt travel plans as the country sees a significant rebound in travel volume, returning to pre-pandemic levels for the first time. Here’s what travelers need to know.

Key Storms to Watch
Winter Storms in California and Nevada

The National Weather Service has issued warnings for winter storms in California and Nevada, particularly impacting the Sierra Nevada mountains. These storms are expected to last through Wednesday, with up to three feet of snow expected at higher elevations.

Winter Weather Advisory in the Northeast

On Tuesday morning, parts of Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, and the Eastern Adirondacks of New York are under a winter weather advisory. Travelers in these areas should be prepared for freezing rain and icy road conditions, which could make travel hazardous.

The Path of the Cold Front
Midwest and South Brace for Cold Front

A cold front is set to move through the Midwest and South beginning Wednesday night. As it sweeps eastward into Thanksgiving Day, it is expected to bring both precipitation and plummeting temperatures across the region.

The exact path of the storm remains uncertain, which complicates predictions for snowfall on Thanksgiving Day and into Friday. However, low pressure tracking near New England could bring widespread rain and snow to the area from Thursday through Friday morning.

Regional Impact of Snow and Rain

Potential Snow and Rain in Northern New York and Vermont
There is a possibility of snow on Thanksgiving Day in northern New York and Vermont, continuing into Friday. Additionally, rain and high-elevation snow could impact regions like northwestern Connecticut, western Massachusetts, and eastern New York on Thanksgiving.

Wet Driving Conditions from Boston to New York City

Travelers driving between Boston and New York City should prepare for a wet and potentially treacherous drive, whether from snow or heavy rain. Road conditions could become hazardous in these areas, particularly for those unfamiliar with winter driving.

Cold Weather to Follow Thanksgiving
Post-Thanksgiving Cold Surge

A surge of cold weather is expected to hit the Midwest and Northeast in the days following Thanksgiving. Cities such as Chicago, Pittsburgh, and Columbus, Ohio, may experience high temperatures in the 20s, with freezing conditions sweeping across the Great Lakes and Northeast.

Strikes and Travel Delays at Major Airports
Charlotte Airport Workers Strike

Workers at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, a major hub for American Airlines, went on strike Monday demanding higher wages. While it’s unclear if the strike will continue throughout the holiday period, the airport has stated that it is not impacting operations. The workers, who are responsible for tasks such as trash removal, cabin cleanup, and wheelchair assistance, are still in dispute over pay.

Thanksgiving Weather in Recent Years
Historical Winter Storms

It has been five years since Thanksgiving saw significantly destructive winter weather. In 2019, a bomb cyclone struck the West Coast, bringing almost hurricane-force winds and severe flooding. Hail also fell in Los Angeles just before Thanksgiving, and a tragic incident in Arizona saw three family members lose their lives in a flooded creek. The year prior, 2018, was notable for record-breaking cold temperatures in New York City, which experienced its coldest Thanksgiving since 1901.

Conclusion

With winter storms on the horizon, travelers should stay updated on weather conditions and prepare for potential disruptions to travel plans. Whether snow, rain, or freezing temperatures, this Thanksgiving week is shaping up to be a challenging one for those on the move.