As the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday approaches, a formidable winter storm is poised to disrupt travel plans for millions across the United States. This year, the combination of heavy rain, snow, and frigid air is expected to impact hundreds of millions of people eager to reach their holiday destinations.
Forecasters are warning of a significant weather event that will sweep across the country.
Originating from the West, this storm has already blanketed areas in snow, particularly in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, and is set to intensify as it moves eastward. By Wednesday night, heavy downpours are expected to affect Mississippi, Tennessee, and Ohio, while northern Appalachia is bracing for up to eight inches of snow by Friday morning, according to the National Weather Service.
West
In the West, winter storm warnings are in effect, with forecasts predicting 1 to 2 feet of snow in parts of Colorado and Utah. Although Denver may only receive a few inches, any accumulation could still wreak havoc on travel plans.
Northeast
As the storm progresses, the Northeast is not likely to escape the turmoil. Major cities including Philadelphia, New York City, Boston, and Washington D.C., are bracing for rain and thunderstorms from late Wednesday through Thanksgiving Day. The Southeast will also see its share of rainfall, affecting regions such as northern Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas.
Great Lakes
The Great Lakes region could experience hazardous conditions, with some areas facing snowfall rates of 2 to 3 inches per hour. This could lead to life-threatening visibility issues across parts of Michigan, Wisconsin, Indiana, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and western New York.
Record Travel
Compounding the impact of this winter weather is the fact that travel is expected to reach record levels. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), approximately 79.9 million Americans will embark on journeys of 50 miles or more from Tuesday through Monday. This number marks an increase of 1.7 million travellers compared to last year and is 2 million more than in 2019.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is preparing for its busiest US Thanksgiving travel period ever, anticipating that it will screen around 18.3 million passengers between now and December 2. TSA Administrator David Pekoske noted that the ten busiest travel days in the agency's history all occurred in 2024, indicating a growing trend in holiday travel.
As millions prepare to hit the road or take to the skies, the combination of a powerful storm and record travel numbers poses significant challenges.
