Understanding the Holiday Travel Forecast
This holiday season, millions are taking to the roads and skies to celebrate with family and friends. However, as the travel rush gets underway, we must stay informed about the weather conditions that may impact travel plans. The holiday travel forecast indicates several potential problem areas that travelers should monitor closely.
Weather Conditions on the West Coast
Much of the West Coast is expected to experience a series of storm systems throughout the weekend, bringing with them significant amounts of rain and even snow in higher elevations. This persistent wet weather will likely lead to difficult travel conditions, particularly for those traversing mountain passes where snow accumulation can reduce visibility and increase the risk of accidents.
Rain and Thunderstorms in the South
As we shift our focus towards the southern parts of the United States, travelers should also prepare for rounds of rain and thunderstorms that will dampen outdoor festivities. The forecast suggests that this rain will intensify, with the potential for localized flash flooding in some regions. Motorists should exercise extra caution and have a contingency plan in the event of severe weather disrupting road travel.
How Weather Affects the Midwest and East
Eventually, the inclement weather currently affecting the South is expected to spread northward into the Midwest and East Coast. Travelers in these areas should anticipate a mix of rain and possible winter weather as the weekend progresses. Airlines could also be impacted, leading to potential delays or cancellations. Checking flight status ahead of travel is advisable to avoid last-minute surprises.
Ultimately, whether you’re heading home after the holidays or off to your New Year’s Eve celebrations, staying updated on the weather forecasts is paramount. It’s essential to plan for potential disruptions that weather may cause, as snow, rain, or icy conditions can pose risks to travelers.
To ensure a smooth journey, consider signing up for our morning brief email newsletter. This will provide you with essential weekday updates straight from our weather channel and expert meteorologists. Being prepared is the key to making your holiday travels as safe and pleasant as possible.
This Weekend
- East, Midwest: Rain in the Midwest and South Saturday will spread to much of the East on Sunday. T-storms are possible across the South Saturday and Sunday, but locally heavy downpours and wet roads appears to be the main travel concern in these areas.
- South: Severe storms are possible in the South from eastern Texas through much of Alabama and portions of central Tennessee. Large hail, damaging wind and tornadoes could all threaten travelers.
- West: Rain and mountain snow will continue from Northern California, Oregon and Washington into parts of the Rockies. Flooding and landslides are most possible in Northern California and southwestern Oregon.
- Potential airport weather delays: Chicago, Memphis, New Orleans, Seattle and San Francisco (Saturday); Washington, Philadelphia, NYC, Boston, Atlanta, Charlotte, Orlando, Miami, Seattle and San Francisco (Sunday)