Thanksgiving weekend weather forecast: Anticipated rain, snow, and winter storms for travelers in the U.S.

Widespread storm systems stretching from coast to coast may complicate travel for millions of Americans this Thanksgiving week. Forecasters predict showers and thunderstorms in the central and southern U.S., while the Northwest, Midwest, and East could experience a mix of rain, snow, and colder temperatures.

AAA projects that nearly 82 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles this Thanksgiving, marking a 2% increase from last years record of 80.2 million. The majority 73.3 million plan to drive, while approximately 6 million are expected to fly. Traffic is expected to peak Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons.

Forecast Highlights

AccuWeather reports that cold Canadian air will push into the nations midsection, producing accumulating snow across parts of the northwestern Rockies and wind-driven snow in the Midwest. "Significant blowing and drifting snow is predicted for Minnesota and northern Michigan, with blizzard conditions near Lake Superior," said AccuWeather meteorologist Brandon Buckingham. Cities like Minneapolis, Chicago, Detroit, and Cleveland may face weather-related travel delays on Thanksgiving Eve.

Meanwhile, an atmospheric river will bring moisture to the Pacific Northwest, raising the risk of flooding and hazardous travel in western Washington and northwestern Oregon.

Thanksgiving Day Weather

The Northeast, Midwest, and mid-Atlantic will experience windy and cold conditions. Heavy lake-effect snow, accompanied by strong winds, may cause localized whiteouts in parts of the Great Lakes region. "Several inches of snow could affect travel along key interstates 81, 90, and 196, with visibility reduced and temperatures only reaching the 20s and 30s," AccuWeather noted.

In New York City, the Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade is expected to have clear skies with highs in the mid-40s. Strong gusts of 20 to 30 mph will make it feel significantly colder.

Travel Challenges After Thanksgiving

Lake-effect snow will continue to impact the Great Lakes region. The storm system that brings snow to the northern Rockies on Thanksgiving will move into the Plains, creating a swath of accumulating snow and breezy conditions, slowing travel. Snowfall totals are forecasted to reach 6 to 12 inches in parts of Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois, with isolated areas potentially seeing up to 18 inches.

Even a few inches of snow at major airports such as Chicago OHare or MinneapolisSt. Paul can result in flight delays and cancellations for those traveling home, according to AccuWeather.

Travel Impact This Thanksgiving: A Forecast of Delays and Weather Challenges

As millions of Americans take to the roads and skies this Thanksgiving week, the storm systems sweeping across the country are poised to disrupt travel plans. The forecast, predicting a range of hazardous weather from snowstorms to heavy rain, is a reminder that this year's holiday travel may be far from smooth.

While AAA anticipates that nearly 82 million people will travel this Thanksgiving, a 2% increase from last year's record, the weather could complicate things. The majority of travelers, about 73.3 million, are expected to drive, while roughly 6 million will fly. For those on the roads, the challenges will likely peak on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons, with heavy traffic compounded by adverse weather conditions.

Cold air from Canada is set to bring accumulating snow to the northern Rockies and Midwest, while parts of the East and South will face rain and thunderstorms. Significant snow accumulation in Minnesota, Michigan, and the Great Lakes region could lead to whiteout conditions, affecting travel along major interstates. Cities like Minneapolis, Chicago, and Cleveland are expected to experience delays as snowstorms create hazardous driving conditions.

The Pacific Northwest will also face its own set of challenges as an atmospheric river brings moisture, raising the risk of flooding and travel disruptions. Washington and Oregon are already bracing for potential hazards that could affect both local and regional travel.

With the increased risk of delays, travelers should prepare for a Thanksgiving that may include not only crowded airports and highways but also the potential for longer-than-expected travel times due to weather-related disruptions. The forecast is clear: it's not just the Thanksgiving feast that will require patience, but the journey to get there as well.

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• Thanksgiving weekend weather forecast: Where travelers can expect rain, snow and winter storms across the U.S.