Weather threatens Thanksgiving travel this week

A developing storm system will cause travel issues in the days leading up to the Thanksgiving holiday.

From heavy rain and gusty winds to wintry weather, this multi-hazard storm will particularly affect the eastern half of the country, causing many flight delays and cancellations through mid-week.

A storm system developing in the central United States is expected to intensify as it heads east over the next few days, likely disrupting travel plans for many ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.

In its early stages, this system will bring rain and thunderstorms mainly across parts of Texas, the Plains and the Mississippi River Valley Sunday night into Monday.

As it strengthens, this storm will bring periods of heavy rain and gusty winds across the Ohio Valley on Tuesday before moving northeast.

Although the core of the storm will pass north, a cold front extending from its center will still bring widespread rain and thunderstorms across the Southeast as well Tuesday into Wednesday.

Threat of severe weather

The energy generated by this system will pull a lot of moisture from the Gulf of Mexico. This, coupled with instability in the atmosphere, will lead to the possibility of strong storms.

While some consolidated storms could produce locally heavy rain across the Plains and Midwest, the severe weather threat will remain confined to parts of East Texas and the Deep South on Monday, as the Storm Prediction Center (SPC) issued a margin of enhanced risk (Level 1 -3 out of 5).

All types of severe weather are possible, with parts of the lower Mississippi River Valley facing the greatest threat.

Along with the potential for damaging winds, heavy rain and large hail, several tornadoes are also expected – some of which may be strong.

Winter weather

Parts of the upper Midwest could see some snow showers on the backend of this system as it moves across the Great Lakes on Tuesday.

However, parts of the Northeast will likely experience greater winter weather impacts through midweek. Snow, sleet and freezing rain will create additional risks for travelers.

Although most of the mid-Atlantic region will see wet and windy conditions from this system, heavy, wet snow and a wintry mix will lead to dangerous travel conditions across parts of central and eastern New York and northern New England.

Parts of upstate New York and inland New England will see the highest accumulations, where local snowfall totals could reach a foot or more by the time the storm exits the region.

Regardless of the amounts, heavy snowfall and gusty winds can significantly reduce visibility and make roads somewhat slippery. Drivers who do not need to get out should stay off the roads during the height of the storm.

be ready

Depending on where you’re going and when, be prepared to experience travel delays in the coming days. Be sure to closely follow the weather forecast for your current location and desired destination, and be sure to check flight status before heading to the airport.

For those traveling by car, plan your trip accordingly. Remember to keep these safety tips in mind while driving in the rain.

Travelers through areas where wintry weather is expected should stay off the roads during the peak of the storm and avoid dangerous driving conditions by leaving ahead of time.

Remember to check here for the latest updates and information in the coming days.

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