Winter Storm Threatens Post-Thanksgiving Travel Across the Country
As Americans return home from their Thanksgiving celebrations, a formidable winter storm looms, threatening to disrupt travel plans nationwide. This post-Thanksgiving storm is expected to develop from initial weather patterns in the Rockies and move across the country, bringing a mix of heavy rain and significant snowfall.
Winter Storm Overview
The storm is poised to affect over 1,000 miles of the U.S., with rain forecasted for southern regions and snow blanketing northern areas. The impact of this storm will be felt throughout the weekend, especially as a wave of frigid Arctic air moves in, dramatically dropping temperatures for millions.
Timeline of the Storm
- Thursday Night: The storm entered the Pacific Northwest.
- Friday: It moved into the Rockies, with snowfall beginning in northern regions.
- Saturday: The storm is expected to strengthen as it travels towards the Midwest, bringing snow and rain.
- Sunday: Eastern regions, including the Great Lakes, will experience snow, while the South faces rain.
- Monday: The storm will exit the East Coast as cold temperatures settle in.
Snowfall Predictions
Areas particularly vulnerable to heavy snowfall include:
- Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Michigan: Expected to receive more than 6 inches of snow.
- Chicago: Could see 8 inches of snow, marking the heaviest snowfall since January 2021.
- Cedar Rapids and northwest Illinois: May accumulate over a foot of snow.
Travel conditions in these regions could become nearly impossible as heavy snow develops, with significant impacts on local airports and roadways.
Temperature Drops and Weather Hazards
Following the storm’s passage, a significant drop in temperatures is anticipated. By Saturday, high temperatures in regions like Nebraska may only reach the teens and low 20s. Overnight lows could plunge into single digits across much of the north-central U.S., setting the stage for dangerously cold conditions this December.
Potential Travel Disruptions
In addition to snow, rain showers might produce localized flash flooding, particularly in the southern states. Areas in eastern Texas and western Louisiana are under watch for flooding on Saturday. As the storm moves eastward, rain may continue to affect travel conditions further into Sunday.
Long-term Outlook
This winter storm marks a stark transition into the meteorological winter season. With further Arctic air movement expected, residents across the central U.S. should prepare for a notable shift in weather patterns as December begins.
Travelers are urged to monitor weather conditions closely and plan accordingly as this winter storm develops, impacting post-Thanksgiving travels throughout the nation.
