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Dangerous Weather and Holiday Travel: What to Expect
Millions of Americans are bracing for severe weather as they prepare for Thanksgiving travel. A combination of strong storms, heavy rain, high winds, and snow is sweeping across the United States, creating challenges for drivers and air travelers alike. Here’s a breakdown of the weather systems affecting the country and what you can do to stay safe.
Bomb Cyclone Brings Havoc to the Pacific Northwest
The Pacific Northwest faced a severe storm earlier this week, described as a bomb cyclone. This weather event brought hurricane-level winds and caused widespread damage:
Fallen trees disrupted roads, damaged buildings, and caused power outages.
Over 500,000 homes and businesses lost electricity in Washington state as of Wednesday morning.
Tragically, a woman in her 50s died in Lynnwood, Washington, when a tree collapsed on a homeless encampment.
Wind speeds reached a staggering 101 mph off the coast of British Columbia, while gusts of up to 77 mph were recorded in Washington state’s inland areas. Emergency crews have been working around the clock to restore power and clear debris.
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"Atmospheric River" to Bring Days of Heavy Rain and Snow
As the bomb cyclone weakens, a new challenge is emerging. A weather system known as an atmospheric river is expected to bring continuous rain and snow to the West Coast. Here's what’s ahead:
Heavy rain will affect northern California, Oregon, and Washington, with localized flooding possible in some areas.
Snowfall will blanket the mountain regions, particularly the Washington Cascades, where conditions could become severe enough to qualify as a blizzard.
This atmospheric river event is forecast to last for several days, potentially disrupting travel on highways and in mountain passes. If you’re in these areas, expect delays and pack emergency supplies if driving.
Central U.S. Faces Blizzard Conditions
The storm that struck the Pacific Northwest isn’t the only one causing trouble. Another system brought severe thunderstorms and even a tornado to the central and southern Plains earlier this week. This same storm is now combining with arctic air as it moves north, leading to widespread snow.
Here’s what’s happening:
Heavy snow and gusty winds will hit the Dakotas, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.
The worst conditions are expected in North Dakota, eastern South Dakota, and northwest Minnesota, where near-blizzard conditions will make travel dangerous.
Snow totals in some areas could reach several inches to over a foot, especially in the northern Plains. The National Weather Service has advised drivers to avoid unnecessary travel in affected areas.
Snow and Cold Rain for the Great Lakes and Northeast
In addition to the storms hitting the Plains and West Coast, a third weather system is developing over the Great Lakes. This system will bring a mix of snow and rain to the eastern U.S., including:
Cold rain for the Ohio Valley and parts of the East Coast.
Snowfall in the central Appalachians, with some areas in West Virginia and Maryland expecting up to 12 inches of snow in higher elevations.
The weather will also impact the Northeast. While most areas will see rain, parts of northeast Pennsylvania and the Catskill Mountains in New York could receive 4 inches or more of snow by the weekend. Residents in these areas should prepare for slippery roads and reduced visibility during the holiday travel period.
Thanksgiving Travel and Weather Outlook
Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel times of the year, and the severe weather could not have come at a worse time. According to AAA, nearly 80 million Americans are expected to travel more than 50 miles for the holiday, with the heaviest travel days being Tuesday and Wednesday of next week.
While the weather forecast for Thanksgiving Day is still being finalized, early predictions from the U.S. Climate Prediction Center suggest:
Rain is likely in the Pacific Northwest, Upper Midwest, and Great Lakes.
Milder weather may occur in the southern and eastern U.S., though some areas could still see rain.
Preparing for the Weather
With dangerous conditions expected in many parts of the country, preparation is key. Here are some tips to keep yourself and your family safe during holiday travel:
If Driving:
Check the Weather: Stay updated on forecasts for your route. Use reliable sources like the National Weather Service or a trusted weather app.
Pack Essentials: Bring blankets, food, water, flashlights, and a fully charged phone. These can be lifesaving if you get stranded in snowy conditions.
Drive Safely: Slow down in snow or rain, and make sure your tires are properly inflated and in good condition.
If Flying:
Monitor Your Flight: Check for delays or cancellations before heading to the airport.
Plan for Delays: Bring snacks, entertainment, and extra clothing in case of extended waiting times at the airport.
Know Your Rights: Be aware of airline policies for rebooking or refunds if your flight is affected by weather.
At Home:
Prepare for Power Outages: Have flashlights, batteries, and a backup heat source ready.
Prevent Flooding: Clear gutters and drains to minimize water buildup during heavy rain.
Stay Informed: Sign up for local weather alerts to stay ahead of changing conditions.
Impact on the Holiday Season
Thanksgiving marks the start of the holiday season, and severe weather could impact not only travel but also community events and family gatherings. Many people are likely to face delays or cancellations due to the challenging conditions.
Retailers and delivery services might also be affected, as snow and ice disrupt transportation networks. If you’re shopping online or waiting for deliveries, plan for possible delays in the days leading up to Thanksgiving.
Looking Ahead
Though the immediate focus is on the storms sweeping the country, weather patterns for the rest of the Thanksgiving holiday and the start of December will also play a role in travel and holiday plans. Early predictions suggest:
More rain and snow are likely in the Pacific Northwest, Upper Midwest, and Great Lakes.
Warmer-than-average temperatures may reduce snow risk in the southern U.S., but rain could still be an issue.
Weather service forecasters will provide more specific predictions as the holiday approaches, so stay tuned for updates.
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Conclusion
Severe weather is expected to disrupt millions of Thanksgiving travel plans across the United States. From the Pacific Northwest bomb cyclone to blizzards in the Plains and snow in the Northeast, travelers will face challenges in multiple regions.
To stay safe, keep an eye on weather forecasts, prepare for delays, and adjust your travel plans as needed. By taking precautions, you can make your journey as smooth and safe as possible, even in difficult conditions.
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