New York, NY – Millions of Americans heading out for Thanksgiving this year face challenging conditions as multiple storm systems sweep from the Pacific Northwest to the East Coast. Forecasters warn of rain, thunderstorms, strong winds and widespread snow that could disrupt both road and air travel during one of the busiest holiday weeks of 2025. With nearly 82 million travelers expected to journey at least 50 miles from home, any shift in weather patterns could slow an already packed transportation system.
Meteorologists say the setup includes cold Canadian air pushing south, an atmospheric river slamming into the Northwest, and developing blizzard conditions near the Great Lakes. These overlapping systems are expected to create dangerous driving conditions, airport delays, and regional whiteouts during peak travel days.
How Weather Conditions Are Shaping Thanksgiving Week
Cold air spilling out of Canada will interact with moisture across the central and northern U.S., generating accumulating snow in the northwest Rockies and widespread wintry conditions across the Midwest. Forecasters say major hubs like Minneapolis, Chicago, Detroit and Cleveland could see meaningful slowdowns on the roads and in the air.
In the Pacific Northwest, a moisture-loaded atmospheric river is expected to strike, increasing concerns for flooding, slick roads, and visibility issues in parts of western Washington and northwestern Oregon. As storms progress eastward, millions of travelers from the Plains to the Northeast will feel the impact during the week’s heaviest travel windows.
What Travelers Can Expect on Wednesday
Forecasters highlight Wednesday as one of the most challenging days to travel. Cold Canadian air dipping into the nation’s midsection may trigger wind-driven snow across Minnesota and northern Michigan, with a full blizzard forming near Lake Superior. These conditions could produce blowing snow, drifting snow, and periods of extremely low visibility.
“Substantial blowing and drifting snow is forecast in portions of Minnesota and northern Michigan, with an all-out blizzard developing in the vicinity of Lake Superior,” said AccuWeather meteorologist Brandon Buckingham.
Airports serving Minneapolis and Chicago are considered especially vulnerable to delays. Meanwhile, heavy rain and mountain snow in the Pacific Northwest could complicate flights in Seattle and Portland and produce hazardous driving conditions along major mountain passes.
Thanksgiving Day Forecast Across the U.S.
Conditions remain unsettled on Thursday. Much of the Northeast, Midwest and mid-Atlantic will experience windy, chilly weather throughout the day. Temperatures in many of these regions will hover in the 20s and 30s, with stronger wind gusts making it feel even colder.
The Great Lakes region will contend with intense lake-effect snow bands, which can quickly produce localized whiteouts and sharp reductions in visibility. Forecasters warn that travel along major corridors — including Interstates 81, 90 and 196 — could be difficult within the most persistent snow bands.
Despite the stormy pattern, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City is expected to continue as planned. Forecasters call for seasonably chilly conditions with highs in the mid-40s and wind gusts in the 20 to 30 mph range.
Friday Travel Outlook: Snow Returns for Millions
The day after Thanksgiving brings another round of tricky weather. Lake-effect snow continues across the Great Lakes, keeping visibility low and roads slick in impacted areas. In addition, the storm system responsible for earlier snow in the Rockies will slide into the northern Plains, delivering a fresh swath of accumulating snow and gusty winds.
Some of the heaviest totals — 6 to 12 inches, with pockets up to 18 inches — are expected across Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Illinois. The snow will challenge drivers and likely slow flights at key airports.
“Even a few inches of snow at major airports such as Chicago O’Hare or Minneapolis–St. Paul can lead to delays and cancellations for travelers heading home,” AccuWeather noted.
Key Impacts for Holiday Travelers
Several factors increase the potential for widespread travel complications:
• Snowfall totals in parts of the Midwest may exceed a foot
• Blizzard-like conditions around Lake Superior
• Heavy Pacific Northwest rainfall from an atmospheric river
• Strong winds in the Northeast and Great Lakes
• Chilly temperatures across much of the country on Thanksgiving Day
With 73.3 million Americans expected to drive to their destinations and another 6 million flying, even modest weather disruptions can ripple across the entire transportation network. Tuesday and Wednesday remain the most heavily traveled days, and early departures may help reduce delays for some families.
What Travelers Should Do
Travelers heading out this week should:
• Monitor real-time forecasts and statewide road condition updates
• Allow extra travel time, especially in snow-prone regions
• Check flight statuses frequently
• Prepare emergency supplies in their vehicle if driving long distances
• Plan alternate routes in case of road closures or significant delays
Final Thoughts
Thanksgiving week brings a complicated mix of storms across the country, increasing the chance of traffic jams, slow-moving highways, and airport congestion. With millions on the move, even localized storms can create widespread impacts. Travelers who stay updated and plan wisely will have the best chance of staying safe and minimizing disruptions.
Share your travel plans or weather updates in the comments below.
