As Thanksgiving approaches, severe weather is expected to impact travel plans for millions of Americans. A powerful storm system is moving east, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and severe storms, particularly to the eastern U.S. This system poses significant travel disruptions.
About 10 million people faced severe storm risks on Monday from east Texas to western Alabama. Tornado watches were initially in effect for much of Louisiana but had shifted to southeastern Louisiana and Mississippi by evening. Alabama is particularly at risk for strong, potentially long-track tornadoes, which are notably more dangerous at night.
While heavy rain is also a concern, the system’s speed is likely to prevent significant flash flooding. Cities such as Jackson, MS; Alexandria, Shreveport, and New Orleans in Louisiana; and Mobile, AL are all under severe storm threat.
Expect travel delays nationwide as rain, snow, and strong winds impact major hubs.This autumn has seen relatively quiet severe weather, with Monday marking the first major tornado threat since late August. Additionally, heavy rain could delay travel across parts of the Midwest and Great Lakes. Major airports like Chicago, Kansas City, St. Louis, Dallas, Houston, and New Orleans may experience delays.
By Tuesday, the storm will shift eastward, affecting the Mid-Atlantic and Great Lakes with rain and introducing wintry precipitation to the interior Northeast. New York City has issued a travel advisory due to expected wet and windy conditions, with rain and gusts up to 40 mph anticipated.
As the storm moves away by Wednesday, northern New England and Maine will still experience rain and snow. Key airports, including Atlanta, Charlotte, Washington D.C., Philadelphia, and New York City, could face delays. Boston may see strong winds and rain into the afternoon.
In the West, snowfall could impact travel in Colorado, with Denver expecting 2 to 6 inches of snow and winds gusting up to 55 mph. New England will face winter weather with up to 10 inches of snow in higher elevations and possible icing.
Despite these challenges, Thanksgiving Day itself is expected to be pleasant for most of the country, with seasonable temperatures and minimal weather disruptions, except for some showers on the Gulf Coast and additional snow in the Northern Rockies.