U.S. Thanksgiving Travel Under Threat As Powerful Storm System Expected To Cause Widespread Delays And Disruptions Nationwide

Published on November 21, 2025

As Thanksgiving approaches, millions of Americans are preparing for one of the busiest travel periods of the year. However, a massive storm system threatens to disrupt these plans, bringing heavy rain, thunderstorms, and snow across the eastern and central U.S. Meteorologists are warning that this severe weather could lead to significant delays at airports and on the roads, making travel difficult for those trying to reach their holiday destinations. With forecasts predicting widespread disruption, travelers are advised to stay updated on weather conditions and plan accordingly.

Severe Storm Threat Looms Over Thanksgiving Travel in the U.S.

As millions of Americans prepare for one of the busiest travel periods of the year, a major storm system is poised to disrupt plans across the eastern and central United States. Meteorologists are predicting that this weather system, which is expected to impact a large portion of the country, could lead to significant travel delays and disruptions, particularly as travelers make their way to Thanksgiving destinations.

With heavy rain, thunderstorms, gusty winds, and potentially some snow in certain regions, authorities are urging all travellers to stay informed on the evolving weather patterns. According to forecasts, this storm is shaping up to be the most significant weather threat for the 2025 holiday season.

Travel Chaos Predicted as Storm Targets U.S. Heartland

Forecasters are tracking an expansive storm system that is expected to affect nearly two-thirds of the United States during the critical travel period ahead of Thanksgiving. The storm, which will originate from Texas early next week, will gradually move northeastward, impacting states like Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, and others across the central U.S. As it moves forward, rain, strong winds, and thunderstorms are expected to slow down travel in these regions.

Meteorologists are particularly concerned about November 25 and 26, as these two days are forecast to bring widespread rain and thunderstorms, causing delays, especially across the central part of the country. Strong to severe thunderstorms could lead to hazardous conditions on highways and disrupt air travel.

By Wednesday, the storm is expected to expand to major airports and travel hubs in cities like Atlanta, Chicago, and Minneapolis, as well as parts of Florida. These airports may experience operational delays due to high winds and thunderstorms. According to meteorologists, the storm’s influence on travel will likely be significant, with congestion in major airports and on highways as millions of people take to the roads and skies to reach their holiday destinations.

Rain Dominates, but Snow May Impact Northern Regions

While the storm will primarily bring rain, especially in the southern and central U.S., snow is a possibility in certain areas. The northern edge of the system, as it reaches the Northeast, may bring light snowfall, especially as it weakens. However, the major concern remains rain and cloud cover, which could cause flight delays across a large section of the eastern U.S., from Washington, D.C., to Boston.

More substantial snow may occur farther west, especially in the Great Lakes region. Meteorologists predict that cold air from Canada will combine with lingering moisture to produce snow between Wednesday and Thursday. This is expected to primarily affect areas in northern Michigan, Wisconsin, and the Upper Peninsula. Although snow is not expected to be heavy in many places, even brief periods of rain or snow can severely disrupt travel during the busy holiday period.

Weather Pattern Shifts Post-Thanksgiving

Looking ahead, a significant weather pattern shift is expected after Thanksgiving. According to the U.S. Climate Prediction Center (CPC), there will be a transition from mild conditions in the East and colder temperatures in the West to much colder conditions across the northern and central parts of the country. This shift is expected to bring winter-like weather, with snow and freezing temperatures making travel more challenging, particularly in the days following the holiday.

In the wake of Thanksgiving, the CPC warns that the central and northern U.S. could experience “winter-like conditions” with heavy snow in certain regions. Winter storm alerts have already been issued in several parts of the country, heightening concerns about the potential impact on holiday traffic, including events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. However, meteorologists note that snowfall remains unlikely for the Mid-Atlantic states, including areas like Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia.

What to Expect for Thanksgiving Weather

Looking specifically at Thanksgiving Day weather, the Old Farmer’s Almanac is predicting mostly sunny and dry conditions for much of the eastern U.S., including New Jersey and the Atlantic Corridor. While temperatures could be cooler than average, the weather is expected to remain clear, with minimal risk of rain or snow. This should provide relatively smooth travel for those making their way to Thanksgiving dinners and family gatherings.

However, the Almanac also suggests that the rest of the winter season in 2025-26 will be mild and drier for most of New Jersey, with the majority of snow expected to fall toward the end of December and into early January. This could be a welcome relief for travelers planning winter trips to the region.

Impact on Holiday Travel

According to the latest travel forecasts, approximately 82 million Americans are expected to travel by road or air in the days leading up to Thanksgiving 2025, placing immense pressure on highways and airports. The holiday forecast from AAA anticipates a significant surge in traffic, with many families opting for road trips or flying to their destinations. This, combined with the storm’s predicted effects, means travelers should plan extra time for potential delays and disruptions.

In addition to the storm system, meteorologists advise travellers to monitor the weather closely as Thanksgiving approaches. With unpredictable weather patterns and heavy traffic expected, staying updated on the latest weather alerts is crucial for minimizing delays and ensuring a safe, timely journey.

As the busiest travel period of the year approaches, the storm system emerging across the U.S. serves as a stark reminder of how weather can quickly complicate travel plans, especially during the holiday season. By staying informed and prepared, travelers can mitigate some of the challenges posed by this seasonal weather threat.