The National Weather Service issued a warning last Saturday (Nov. 23) stating that a "polar vortex" will bring cold temperatures and significant snowfall to much of the United States during and after Thanksgiving, potentially causing severe disruptions for record holiday travel crowds. Meteorologists estimate that about two-thirds of the country could experience severe weather to some degree, with the storm system expected to impact much of the central, eastern, and southern regions.
According to the latest forecasts from the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, temperatures in the Pacific Northwest, Great Plains, Midwest, and South will be below average before and after Thanksgiving. Following this, cold weather will extend further west, with the entire western region likely to see temperatures drop below normal levels.
Flight Cancellations and Snowbound Travel
A massive storm system is currently taking shape across North America, moving eastward from the Pacific Coast and rapidly affecting over ten states, likely turning this year's Thanksgiving travel period into a "travel nightmare week" of chaos and delays. Weather forecasts indicate that this storm is moving at a swift pace, with impacts first felt in the Southwest and Texas on Monday. Dallas airport reported numerous flight cancellations due to thunderstorms, with over 200 flights delayed, leaving many travelers stranded since early morning.
Cold air from Canada is pushing south, posing a snowfall threat to several northern states this week. Meteorological agencies predict that portions of North Dakota, Wisconsin, and Michigan may see several inches of snow, which is undoubtedly bad news for travelers planning to drive home.
The real chaos is expected on Tuesday and Wednesday as the storm expands further east, with areas from the Gulf Coast to significant portions of the Midwest facing strong thunderstorms and even severe thunderstorms. Widespread rainfall will make roadways slippery, and unstable weather is likely to disrupt airport operations.
This wave of frigid weather coincides with the peak travel period for Thanksgiving. The American Automobile Association estimates that nearly 82 million Americans will be driving during the holiday weekend. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) also announced preparations to provide airport security services for an expected 17.8 million airline travelers starting Tuesday.
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