Thanksgiving Weekend Forecast: Rain, Snowfall and More
Overall, this year’s Thanksgiving forecast suggests that while some regions may see wintry conditions, most of the country will experience milder weather. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in various regions, with a focus on areas most likely to see snow.
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1. The Northeast and East Coast
Most of the Northeast, including major cities like New York, Boston, and Philadelphia, is expected to stay cool and dry with limited chances of snow. New York City, for instance, will likely have a clear, brisk Thanksgiving day with temperatures leaning toward the mild side. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), there is an overall trend for warmer-than-average conditions from the Great Lakes region through much of the East Coast this November
. This trend decreases the likelihood of snowfall, making the last Thanksgiving snowstorm of 1989 feel even more like a distant memory.
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2. The Midwest and Great Lakes
In the Upper Midwest, areas near the Great Lakes like Michigan, Wisconsin, and northern Minnesota may experience some light snow flurries, particularly in northern regions. However, forecasts indicate limited snowfall, and travel should be relatively unaffected as Thanksgiving approaches
. For Chicago, Detroit, and similar cities, cool but dry conditions are anticipated, so travelers heading to family gatherings will likely have smooth journeys without winter weather disruptions.3. The Rocky Mountains
The Rockies are among the more likely regions to see snow this Thanksgiving. Higher-altitude locations in northern Colorado, Wyoming, and Montana may experience light to moderate snowfall, especially in mountainous areas. Travelers and holiday goers planning mountain trips should prepare for wintry conditions and possible snow-covered roads. However, snowfall is expected to be more moderate, not disrupting travel significantly
4. The Pacific Northwest
Washington and Oregon could experience mixed weather this Thanksgiving. The mountains may receive light snowfall, especially in areas at higher elevations, but the snow is not expected to impact lower-lying regions or major cities such as Seattle and Portland, where rain is more likely than snow. Thanksgiving travelers here may want to bring rain gear but are unlikely to encounter serious winter weather
5. Alaska and Northern Plains
Alaska, particularly central and northern parts, will likely experience typical winter conditions, with both snow and cold temperatures predicted. Snow is also a possibility in the northern Plains, including regions in North Dakota and northern Minnesota, though accumulation is expected to be minimal for Thanksgiving itself.
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6. Southern and Central Regions
In the southern parts of the U.S., including Texas, Louisiana, and the Southeast, Thanksgiving weather is expected to be warm and dry, with temperatures significantly above freezing. Areas such as Florida may see a few rain showers, but snowfall is not expected anywhere in these warmer regions.
Final Notes for Thanksgiving Travelers
With most regions experiencing milder-than-average weather, the 2024 Thanksgiving holiday should be relatively easy for travel. While snow may cover some mountain areas, especially in the Rockies and the northern Midwest, significant snowfall is not expected to impact most holiday plans. However, as always, travelers should keep an eye on local forecasts in the days leading up to Thanksgiving for any last-minute changes.
