As the Thanksgiving holiday concludes, travelers across the United States may face significant challenges due to an impending winter storm. This storm, set to impact the Pacific Northwest on Thanksgiving night, is projected to evolve into a massive cross-country system delivering both rain and snow across over 1,000 miles of the country this weekend.
Winter Storm Overview
The storm will usher in a sharp drop in temperatures, with a rush of Arctic air following closely behind. Current winter conditions are already causing disruptions for travelers in parts of the Midwest. Blizzard warnings are in effect for regions in Wisconsin and Michigan due to heavy snow and strong winds.
Lake-Effect Snow Alerts
Lake-effect snow warnings are active, anticipating as much as 20 inches of snow coupled with wind gusts reaching 50 mph. This weather system affects areas from northeast Ohio to northwest Pennsylvania and southwestern New York.
Forecast for Post-Thanksgiving Travel
- Timing: The storm will begin in the Pacific Northwest on Thanksgiving night, bringing rain and high-elevation snow.
- Western Impact: Cold air will move into the northern United States as the storm shifts south into the Rockies by Friday.
- Midwest Coverage: By Saturday morning, the storm strengthens and spreads precipitation across the Plains and Midwest, with rain falling south of the storm’s center and snow affecting regions like Nebraska and Kansas.
Snowfall and Temperature Predictions
Forecast models suggest a significant strip of snow accumulation from the Rockies to the Appalachians as November comes to a close. However, snowfall totals may vary according to the storm’s strength and the availability of cold air. Updates on precise snowfall amounts are expected by Friday.
Seasonal Expectations
This winter storm represents the most extensive chance of accumulating snow so far this meteorological fall. Areas like Chicago, which typically experience heavy snowfall, will see additional accumulation due to lake-effect snow. Despite the snowy forecasts, regions like Minneapolis have recently recorded their first measurable snow, significantly later than usual.
Travel Concerns
Potential disruptions extend beyond snow. Heavy rain, particularly in the southern regions, raises concerns about flash flooding, especially in parts of Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana on Saturday. As rain spreads throughout the East on Sunday, travel conditions may worsen, but widespread flash flooding is less likely.
Temperature Drops
This storm system heralds a stark change in temperatures. Starting Saturday, Arctic air is expected to sweep through the Rockies and Plains, causing high temperatures to plummet. Some areas could experience highs in the teens and single-digit lows.
Frigid End to November
- Temperature Forecast: Highs in the central US may reach 30 degrees below normal.
- Frigid Night: Many regions will experience overnight lows at or below freezing, including parts of northern Texas.
As December begins, temperatures across the Lower 48 will feel drastically colder, with some areas in the Upper Midwest potentially falling below zero. This anticipated Arctic blast suggests a preview of more cold weather as winter commences.
