Thanksgiving 2025 Weather Travel Forecast

Thanksgiving 2025 Weather Forecast: Travel Risks and What to Expect

As millions of Americans prepare to travel for Thanksgiving 2025, weather threats could disrupt holiday plans. According to the latest forecasts, a series of storms across the U.S. may bring rain, snow, fog, and strong winds, potentially causing significant delays for both drivers and flyers.

Day-by-Day Weather Outlook for Thanksgiving Travel

Friday, November 21

Expect rain and storms to dampen travel in the Midwest, Southeast, and Plains. Major airports in Atlanta, Kansas City, St. Louis, and Washington D.C. could face delays. Meanwhile, Southern California and parts of the Southwest will see persistent showers, with heavy rain possible in L.A. County and snowy conditions in the mountains.

Saturday, November 22

Most of the country will enjoy clearer skies, but minor issues remain. Morning rain and fog in the East Coast and Gulf Coast could cause flight delays at hubs like Atlanta, Charlotte, and New York. In the Southwest, showers and thunderstorms in Arizona (including Phoenix) may lead to localized flooding and airport disruptions.

Sunday, November 23

Travelers heading to Dallas-Fort Worth should brace for thunderstorms with heavy rain and possible hail in Texas, Oklahoma, and Nebraska. In the Pacific Northwest, expect light rain and mountain snow. Light snow could also affect upstate New York and northern New England, creating slick roads but unlikely to impact major I-95 corridors.

Monday, November 24

Central U.S. travel will be soaked, with rain and thunderstorms from Texas to the Mississippi Valley. Flooding is a concern in Missouri and points south. Meanwhile, the Northern Rockies and Cascades face snow and strong winds, making mountain passes hazardous.

Tuesday, November 25

A widespread rainy system will move from the Midwest and Southeast toward the East Coast. Thunderstorms are possible in the Southeast. The Northern Plains and northern Great Lakes could see wind-driven snow, though exact tracks remain uncertain. The Pacific Northwest will see another round of rain and mountain snow.

Wednesday, November 26 (Peak Travel Day)

Morning showers in the Northeast (especially Boston, NYC, Philly, D.C.) may cause flight delays. Lake-effect snow will intensify in the Great Lakes snowbelts (northern Michigan), bringing dangerous whiteout conditions. Strong crosswinds could disrupt Newark Airport. The Pacific Northwest remains rainy, and the Northern Rockies stay snowy.

Thanksgiving Day, November 27

Lake-effect snow and strong winds will persist in the Great Lakes. The Northeast and Midwest may experience chilly gusty winds affecting Newark. Snow blankets the Northern Rockies, while the Pacific Northwest sees lingering showers. Overall, NYC is forecast for dry morning conditions with possible afternoon winds and coastal flurries overnight.

New York-Specific Thanksgiving Weather

AccuWeather predicts an above-average chance of precipitation for New York State. Upstate cities (Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse) will see highs in the 40s-50s and lows near freezing. Wednesday poses the highest risk for rain, slick roads, and poor visibility in the Ohio Valley and Northeast. Despite a cooler-than-average fall, NYC is expected to have a mostly dry Thanksgiving Day, though flurries are possible along the coast by evening.

"Given the travel volume, even a few hours of rain can create significant problems on the roads and runways." – Paul Pastelok, AccuWeather Lead Long-Range Expert

Travel Tips for Thanksgiving 2025

AAA projects nearly 81 million Americans will travel this Thanksgiving, with 89.6% driving. To minimize delays:

• Check forecasts frequently: Snow and rain tracks may shift, especially for Tuesday/Wednesday.
• Book morning flights: Afternoon/evening storms are more likely to cause cancellations.
• Prepare for mountain passes: Chains or winter tires may be needed in the Rockies, Cascades, and Appalachians.
• Allow extra time: Factor in potential delays from fog, rain, or snow in your travel schedule.

What to Expect Next

While the Farmer’s Almanac predicts colder-than-average temperatures for parts of New York, overall winter is expected to be mild with pockets of severe weather. For the latest updates, monitor local forecasts and airline alerts, as conditions can change rapidly during this volatile travel week.