Detailed forecasts indicate significant weather systems that could disrupt Thanksgiving travel for 2025.
The Big Picture
* Peak Travel Days (Tuesday 11/26 & Wednesday 11/27): This is when the most significant weather impacts are expected. A major storm system is tracking across the country, affecting the Upper Midwest, Great Lakes, and eventually the Northeast.
* Thanksgiving Day (Thursday 11/28): Most of the country will see weather settle down, though it will be much colder in the East.
* Return Travel (Saturday 11/30 - Sunday 12/1): A new system may bring snow to the central Rockies and rain/storms to the South.
Regional Breakdown & Travel Risks
1. Upper Midwest & Great Lakes (High Risk)
* The Threat: A winter storm is bringing heavy snow and gusty winds.
* Locations: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan (especially the Upper Peninsula), and parts of the Dakotas.
* Travel Impact:
* Driving: Hazardous road conditions with snow accumulation (6-12 inches in some northern spots) and reduced visibility.
* Flying: Major hubs like Minneapolis (MSP), Chicago (ORD/MDW), and Detroit (DTW) face likely delays or cancellations due to wind and snow/de-icing operations.
2. Northeast & New England (Moderate Risk)
* The Threat: Rain transitioning to snow/mix in northern areas, followed by a sharp drop in temperature.
* Travel Impact:
* Driving: Wet roads on Wednesday could turn icy or snowy in northern New England/Upstate NY by Thursday morning.
* Flying: Rain and wind could slow down the busy Northeast corridor (NYC, Boston, Philadelphia, DC) on Wednesday, causing ripple-effect delays.
3. The South & Southeast (Moderate Risk)
* The Threat: Rain and thunderstorms.
* Locations: Mississippi Valley extending into the Southeast (Atlanta, Florida).
* Travel Impact:
* Flying: Thunderstorms can cause ground stops. Watch for delays at Atlanta (ATL) and Florida hubs.
* Driving: Heavy downpours could slow interstate traffic (I-95, I-75).
4. The West (Mixed Risk)
* Pacific Northwest: Rain for the coasts (Seattle/Portland) and snow for the Cascades/mountain passes. Travel over passes will be difficult.
* Rockies: Snow expected in the Northern Rockies.
* Southwest/California: Generally drier, but cooler.
Actionable Tips for Your Trip
* Check Your Flight Status Now: Don't wait until you get to the airport. Download your airline's app for push notifications.
* Leave Early (or Late): If you are driving in the Midwest/Northeast, leaving Tuesday morning might beat the worst of the storm, or waiting until Thanksgiving morning could mean clear (but cold) roads.
* Pack an Emergency Kit: If driving in snow-risk zones, ensure you have blankets, water, and a flashlight in the car.
* Buffer Your Return: If you are flying home Sunday, keep an eye on the second system developing over the central US.
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