Winter Storms Across the U.S. Could Disrupt Thanksgiving Travel

Severe winter storms are forecast across the United States during Thanksgiving week, threatening to disrupt holiday travel. Weather warnings have been issued nationwide as regions brace for rain, snow, and plunging temperatures.

In California, recovery efforts continue after storms caused flooding, landslides, and widespread power outages. Over 80,000 people in the Seattle area remained without electricity due to a powerful atmospheric river, which brought heavy rainfall and strong winds. In Sonoma County, California, rescue crews recovered a body from a submerged vehicle, presumed to be a storm victim. The National Weather Service reported record rainfall in Santa Rosa, with 12.5 inches over three days, flooding vineyards in nearby Windsor.

A winter storm warning has been issued for California’s Sierra Nevada, where heavy snow is expected through Tuesday, with up to 4 feet of accumulation in higher elevations. Coastal regions in Washington, Oregon, and California will also see heavy rain. Another atmospheric river is expected to bring further precipitation to central California on Tuesday.

The Midwest and Great Lakes regions are forecast to experience rain and snow early in the week, with the East Coast facing significant impacts on Thanksgiving and Black Friday. Meteorologists predict a low-pressure system will move across the Southeast on Thursday, bringing rain and snow to parts of the Northeast, including Boston and New York. Snowfall is possible in northern New Hampshire, Maine, and the Adirondacks, depending on the storm's inland trajectory.

Earlier storms wreaked havoc in the Pacific Northwest, claiming two lives in Washington state due to falling trees and leaving thousands without power. In northeastern Pennsylvania, heavy snow accumulated up to 17 inches in higher elevations, while precipitation eased drought conditions across parts of New York, West Virginia, and New Jersey.

Though the storms bring much-needed moisture to drought-stricken regions, they pose challenges for holiday travelers. Forecasters warn that further severe weather is likely, urging travelers to plan accordingly as Thanksgiving approaches.