Severe Storms and Possible Snow May Cause Thanksgiving Travel Trouble
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a warning for severe storms and possible snow that could cause travel trouble for Thanksgiving. Delays and disruptions are expected on the East Coast, while the remainder of the nation will experience better travel conditions.
The mid-Atlantic and South are expected to receive much-needed rain, but forecasters are calling for widespread heavy rains across the region. Additionally, two main storm systems are expected to impact the nation with rain, thunderstorms, and winter weather.
In some parts of northern New York and New England, a “white Thanksgiving” is possible as forecasters predict up to 6 inches of snow in areas of New Hampshire and Maine. Thursday may bring easier travel conditions across much of the U.S., except for travelers in the northern Rockies and northern High Plains, where snow will be accumulating starting Thanksgiving morning.
As Thanksgiving travel begins to pick up, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has warned of potential delays and disruptions at major hubs in Charlotte and Atlanta due to thunderstorms, cloudy, and windy conditions.
The weather news comes amid a predicted record number of people traveling for Thanksgiving. AAA has predicted that 55.4 million Americans will travel a minimum of 50 miles between Wednesday and the Sunday following Thanksgiving.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is expecting to screen 2.6 million passengers on Tuesday and 2.7 million passengers on Wednesday, with even bigger crowds expected on Sunday. New York City has also issued a travel advisory, with Mayor Eric Adams urging residents to prepare for heavy rains and strong winds over the next few days.
As Thanksgiving approaches, travelers are advised to check their flight status with airlines and monitor weather conditions closely to ensure a safe and smooth travel experience.