Thanksgiving Snow Storm Forecast: Travel Alerts

Thanksgiving 2025 Snow Forecast: Major Storm Threatens Holiday Travel

As millions prepare to travel for Thanksgiving 2025, meteorologists are warning of a potentially disruptive winter storm system targeting the Midwest and Northern regions. The forecast signals a significant shift from typical holiday weather, with snow, gusty winds, and plummeting temperatures expected to impact travel plans across multiple states.

National Snow Forecast: Key Regions at Risk

According to the Old Farmer's Almanac's long-range outlook, snow is expected to impact specific regions during Thanksgiving week:

• Northern New England: Northern Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont face colder-than-average temperatures with potential snowflakes.
• Upper Midwest: Areas from Minnesota to Michigan's Upper Peninsula may encounter slick roads from occasional snow flurries.
• Intermountain West: Higher elevations in the Rocky Mountains will see rain mixing with snow, potentially disrupting mountain pass travel.
• Alaska: Persistent cold air and snow showers will create challenging travel conditions.

AccuWeather meteorologist Chad Merrill confirms: "We are looking at a pretty strong cold front coming through... it's going to produce a bit of snow."

Iowa Faces Potential Thanksgiving Blizzard

Iowa is bracing for the most significant impacts, with forecasts predicting:

• Several inches of snow accumulation, with northwest Iowa expecting the heaviest totals.
• Temperatures 6-10° below average, with Des Moines potentially dropping to 24°F.
• Gusty winds creating dangerous wind chills and potential power outages.
• A transition from rain to wet, heavy snow that may become light and fluffy, increasing blowing-snow risks.

While not yet classified as a blizzard, conditions could meet the National Weather Service's criteria if sustained winds exceed 35 mph and reduce visibility below 1/4 mile for 3+ hours. Travelers are urged to prepare for potential delays and cancellations.

Travel Safety Recommendations

"Snow is limited to a few northern spots... where flurries could affect travel." — Old Farmer's Almanac

To minimize disruptions, travelers should:

1. Monitor updated forecasts 48-72 hours before departure.
Check road conditions via state transportation apps.
2. Prepare emergency kits with blankets, water, and non-perishable food.
3. Allow extra travel time and consider alternative departure dates.
4. Book flexible tickets or travel insurance for flights.

Regional Weather Outlook

While snow dominates northern zones, other regions will see milder conditions:

• East Coast & South: Sunny skies and mild temperatures ideal for travel.
• West Coast: Heavy rainfall expected, particularly in the Pacific Northwest.
• Southwest: Warm and dry conditions prevail.

What to Expect Next

Meteorologists emphasize that forecasts may evolve as Thanksgiving approaches. The approaching cold front is expected to hit the Midwest hardest between Wednesday and Friday, November 27-28. Travelers in at-risk areas should stay tuned to local weather services and airline updates for real-time adjustments to their itineraries.

Despite potential disruptions, the winter storm offers a picturesque backdrop for holiday gatherings in snow-dusted regions—provided travelers prioritize safety and flexibility in their plans.