Millions of Americans Brace for Severe Weather and Cold Temperatures During Thanksgiving Travel

 

As millions of Americans prepare for Thanksgiving travel, forecasters warn of severe weather and plummeting temperatures that could disrupt plans across the country. The National Weather Service (NWS) announced that an Arctic blast is set to bring "dangerous wind chills, lake-effect snow, and severe thunderstorms" starting Thursday.

The cold front, described as an "Arctic outbreak," is expected to strike the Northern Rockies—covering parts of Idaho, Montana, and Washington state—before advancing into the Northern Plains on Thanksgiving. By the weekend, the cold air will extend into the Midwest, bringing subfreezing temperatures to cities like Chicago, Minneapolis, and Kansas City.

While the cold snap is unlikely to set record-breaking lows, meteorologists predict it will bring the coldest air of the season so far.

The eastern U.S. is forecasted to experience rain and possible snow, potentially affecting major cities, including New York. The anticipated rain and gusty winds could even interfere with the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in Manhattan.

The southeastern U.S. may also see severe thunderstorms and increased rainfall, while freezing overnight temperatures could pose a threat to crops in Gulf Coast areas and northern Florida.

Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel periods in the United States, with approximately 80 million people expected to journey at least 50 miles for the holiday, according to the American Automobile Association (AAA). The combination of rain, snow, and icy conditions could worsen highway congestion, especially along major interstates on the East Coast.

Air travelers may also face delays, although disruptions have been minimal so far. As of Tuesday morning, only 10 U.S. flights had been canceled, according to FlightAware.

Cory Baggett, a meteorologist with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), noted that while widespread record-breaking cold temperatures are not expected, the event marks the season’s most significant cold spell. “Farther south, we are concerned about freezing overnight low temperatures reaching the Gulf Coast and northern portions of Florida, where citrus crops may be vulnerable,” he said.

With hazardous conditions expected to develop, travelers are advised to monitor weather updates and plan ahead for potential delays. The NWS is encouraging people to exercise caution on the roads and prepare for frigid temperatures across much of the country.