A significant winter storm is poised to disrupt holiday travel plans just as millions of Americans are set to gather for Thanksgiving 2024. Reports indicate the storm will span across the entire country, from coast to coast, with both rain and snow forecasted to impact many travelers this week. Meteorologists note the storm's potential to create hazardous conditions on roads and flight delays, particularly along the I-95 corridor and throughout the Midwest.
Thanksgiving traditionally marks one of the busiest travel periods of the year, and this year is no exception. Estimates hint at record-breaking travel numbers, with nearly 80 million people expected to travel at least 50 miles from home—setting the stage for unprecedented congestion and delays. The American Automobile Association (AAA) warns travelers to brace for heavy traffic on the roads, citing significant overcrowding during peak travel times on Tuesday, Wednesday, and the following Sunday.
The storms are initially set to make their impact felt on the West Coast, particularly within California and the Sierra Nevada mountains. Areas are poised to receive between 14 to 36 inches of snowfall, transforming picturesque landscapes but also creating potentially treacherous travel conditions. Beyond California, the storm will head east, gathering strength as it crosses the Rockies and winters down across the Midwest and Northeast.
The upcoming weather woes began to emerge on Wednesday, when snow began accumulating over parts of the Rockies, and air travel disruptions took their toll as flights were delayed. By Wednesday night, around 4,000 delays had been reported across the U.S.—a signal of the travel turmoil many are anticipated to face. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), almost 3 million passengers were expected to be screened on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving alone.
Travelers intending to take to the skies should also keep close attention to storm forecasts. Delays were expected at major hubs including Denver, New York City, and Boston. A significant ground delay at Newark Liberty International Airport was already underway as of Wednesday, compounded by the absence of sufficient air traffic controllers. This situation highlights the chaos forecasted for the nation's airports.
The storm's reach will vary by region. The Northeast can anticipate rain, snow, and high winds on Thanksgiving Day, with some inland areas already under winter storm watches. Forecasters claim spots like Albany could receive up to 7 inches of snow as the icy front sweeps through. Officials urge caution, recommending travelers to alter their plans if possible to avoid hazardous conditions.
On Thanksgiving Day, the weather will largely vary from rain along the I-95 corridor from Washington D.C. to Boston to snow for areas north, including parts of Vermont and North New York. The iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will still go on, albeit with participants facing cold rain as temperatures are expected to settle around the 40s.
Weather advisories predict heavy snowfall for interior New England and predicted clear out post-holiday. But the weekend does not promise relief, as lake-effect snow showers continue through Sunday, affecting travel for those returning home.
Rail travel is also experiencing disruptions, with Amtrak urging passengers on routes within the Midwest to remain vigilant and allowing for altered schedules based on the incoming storm. Front-line workers throughout the transportation sectors are bracing for one of the busiest travel weeks ever recorded.
According to AAA’s travel forecast, 71.7 million people plan to take road trips this Thanksgiving—an increase from last year—and the agency estimates air travel will also swell by 11% compared to pre-pandemic levels. This strains already burdened infrastructure limits as travelers navigate storm conditions ranging from icy roads to delayed flights.
Weather experts warn of significant disruptions lasting through the Thanksgiving weekend, leading many to question how effectively they can carry out their travel plans. It’s important, they say, to stay updated on live weather reports through the day and to adjust plans as necessary.
Travelers are encouraged to maintain diligence, remaining attentive to local advisories and forecasts as we approach the holiday weekend. With snow accumulation foreseen to layer sections of the Midwest and northeastern states, those planning on roadways may also need to prepare for fender benders and other travel-related frustrations.
Given this weather chaos, authorities advise those who must travel to secure their vehicles, lookout for any unsafe conditions, and execute necessary precautions if venturing out. The National Weather Service has cautioned drivers not to push their plans but to take the weather seriously to avoid jeopardizing their holiday experiences. Road conditions could deteriorate, especially between major metropolitan arrivals.
Those flying are similarly reminded to arrive early and have contingency plans as the storm crisscrosses the nation. The holiday spirit persists, but with looming storms impacting travel, the holiday’s travel season holds uncertainty. It’s best for all travelers to err on the side of caution.
