Millions of Americans preparing for Thanksgiving are keeping a close eye on the skies this week as the Thanksgiving weather forecast snow storm continues to evolve into one of the season’s most talked-about systems. As of November 22, 2025, meteorologists are tracking a sprawling cold front that’s merging with Gulf moisture, creating an early-winter setup stretching from the central Plains to the Atlantic coast.
This year’s holiday forecast promises a bit of everything—snow, ice, rain, and wind—depending on where you live or travel. With record-level holiday traffic expected, timing and location will make all the difference for those hoping to arrive safely in time for the turkey.
A Widespread Weather System Developing Mid-Week
The atmosphere over the continental U.S. is charged with competing air masses. Arctic air pouring south from Canada is clashing with warmer southern air, producing a strong low-pressure system now moving east across the Plains. Snow began falling overnight in parts of North Dakota and Minnesota, and radar imagery shows the storm expanding toward Wisconsin, Michigan, and northern Illinois.
In the central states, flakes are piling up quickly. Northern Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula could see totals near a foot before the system tracks east. Road crews are already pretreating major routes, and forecasters warn visibility could drop below a quarter mile during bursts of heavy snow.
By late Tuesday, this same front is expected to reach the Ohio Valley, spreading a messy mix of rain and freezing drizzle before intensifying again as it nears the Appalachians.
Midwest Prepares for the Brunt of the Snow
The heaviest accumulation zone centers on the Upper Midwest. Chicago, Milwaukee, and Green Bay are expected to wake to a white landscape by Wednesday morning. Wind gusts near 30 mph could create localized blizzard-like conditions, especially along open highways.
Snowfall projection (through Thursday morning):
- Northern Minnesota: 8–12 inches
- Northern Wisconsin: 10–14 inches
- Upper Michigan: up to 15 inches in lake-effect areas
- Northern Illinois: 4–8 inches possible
Temperatures behind the front will tumble fast. Afternoon highs in single digits are possible in the northern Plains by Thanksgiving morning, with wind chills dipping below zero. This sharp cold snap marks one of the earliest sustained winter outbreaks in recent years.
Lake-Effect Potential Intensifies
Once the main storm slides east, cold air flowing over the Great Lakes will ignite strong lake-effect snow bands. Communities near Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, and Lake Erie are expected to experience intense, narrow bands that could drop several inches per hour.
Meteorologists caution that these snow squalls can appear suddenly and drastically change driving conditions within minutes. Travelers crossing I-75, I-94, and I-90 should stay alert for rapid whiteouts and slick roads. Some counties are already preparing emergency shelters in anticipation of stranded motorists.
Northeast Braces for a Mixed Bag of Wintry Weather
By Wednesday evening, the storm reaches the Northeast corridor. Its exact track will determine how much snow versus rain each area sees, but forecasts point toward widespread disruption regardless of precipitation type.
Regional breakdown:
- Interior New York and New England: 6–10 inches of snow expected, especially in higher elevations.
- Pennsylvania and northern New Jersey: a mix of sleet, ice, and rain turning to snow overnight.
- Coastal cities including New York and Boston: mainly cold rain with strong winds up to 45 mph.
The combination of wet snow inland and gusty winds near the coast could lead to power interruptions. Utility crews across the Northeast are on alert for downed lines and fallen tree limbs.
Airlines have begun issuing flexible rebooking options for flights scheduled between November 25–28 at major airports, including JFK, LaGuardia, Newark, Logan, and Philadelphia International.
Southern States Face Thunderstorms and Heavy Rain
While the northern half of the country contends with snow and ice, the southern tier braces for heavy rain and thunderstorms. A surge of Gulf moisture feeding into the cold front will trigger widespread convection across Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama.
Rainfall totals between 2 and 4 inches are possible, with isolated flooding in low-lying areas. Severe weather specialists warn of a marginal tornado risk, mainly in eastern Texas and western Louisiana on Tuesday night.
Thanksgiving Day itself looks drier for most of the South, though lingering showers could dampen parts of Georgia and the Carolinas early in the morning. Temperatures there will remain mild, staying in the upper 60s and low 70s before cooler air filters in late Friday.
Western Regions Enjoy Calm, Mild Conditions
While the rest of the nation braces for disruptive weather, the western U.S. will enjoy a tranquil stretch. High pressure anchored over California and the Southwest promises clear skies and warm afternoons. Los Angeles and Phoenix can expect highs in the mid-70s, perfect for outdoor celebrations.
Farther north, the Pacific Northwest will see increasing clouds by the weekend as a weak front drifts in, bringing light rain to Seattle and Portland and a dusting of mountain snow in the Cascades. But overall, the western half of the country escapes the chaos blanketing the east.
Impact on Thanksgiving Travel
AAA projects more than 55 million Americans traveling for Thanksgiving 2025—the highest number in nearly two decades. With such volume, even moderate weather issues can snowball into major delays.
Air travel:
Flight schedules at major Midwest and Northeast hubs are already under review. Airlines are urging passengers to check for updates frequently and arrive early at airports. Weather delays from one region often ripple nationwide, so even flights departing from sunny states may experience disruptions if crews or aircraft are delayed elsewhere.
Road travel:
The busiest travel day remains Wednesday. Motorists heading through snow-prone regions are advised to leave early or postpone departures until conditions improve. State transportation departments from Minnesota to Maine have deployed extra plows and emergency patrols to assist stranded drivers.
Safety reminders:
- Pack blankets, snacks, and chargers in your car.
- Keep your gas tank at least half full.
- Check tire pressure before long drives.
- Monitor live highway cameras and state advisories.
Those relying on public transportation should also anticipate slower schedules as bus and rail networks adjust to weather-related obstacles.
Cold Temperatures Set the Stage for a Wintry Weekend
Behind the departing system, a strong dome of cold air will grip much of the nation. Highs across the northern tier may struggle to reach the 20s, while the central Plains and Midwest remain locked in subfreezing temperatures through the weekend.
By contrast, the South will experience a 20- to 25-degree temperature swing once the cold front passes, signaling a crisp end to the holiday weekend. Outdoor shoppers heading out for Black Friday sales should bundle up; wind chills will make it feel far colder than the thermometer suggests in many areas.
Power and Infrastructure Preparations
Utility companies across the Great Lakes and Northeast have positioned thousands of lineworkers to respond quickly if outages occur. The heavy, wet snow expected in several zones is notorious for weighing down power lines and tree branches.
Homeowners are urged to keep flashlights, extra batteries, and portable chargers handy. Those relying on space heaters or generators should ensure adequate ventilation to prevent carbon-monoxide buildup. Fire departments are reminding residents not to use ovens or stoves for supplemental heat.
City crews in snow-belt regions have stockpiled salt and fuel for plows, while smaller towns are coordinating mutual-aid agreements to share equipment during emergencies.
Thanksgiving Day Snapshot by Region
| Region | Expected Conditions | Temperature Range (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| Northeast | Snow inland, rain coast | 25–45 |
| Midwest | Snow, gusty winds | 10–30 |
| South | Scattered showers early | 50–70 |
| West | Mostly sunny | 55–80 |
| Rockies | Cold, mountain snow | 20–40 |
The national temperature contrast will be striking: while diners in Los Angeles may enjoy patio meals, families in Michigan could be clearing driveways before dessert.
Holiday Celebrations Adjust to the Weather
Despite the stormy setup, many families are finding ways to adapt. Some are hosting gatherings a day early to beat the weather, while others are switching to virtual connections. In snow-covered towns, the storm adds a festive touch, creating postcard-perfect backdrops for Thanksgiving tables.
Restaurants offering take-out feasts are reporting a surge in early orders as people anticipate travel or delivery delays. Grocery chains across the northern states also note brisk sales of essentials—bread, batteries, and comfort foods—as shoppers prepare for both the storm and the holiday.
Looking Beyond Thanksgiving
As the system exits into the Atlantic late Friday, a calmer pattern should return. High pressure is forecast to dominate through Sunday, bringing a chance for sunshine and a gradual rebound in temperatures. However, longer-range guidance hints that another potential disturbance could form over the Rockies early next week, possibly setting up a new round of winter weather.
Forecasters stress that it’s too early to call, but travelers extending trips past the weekend should monitor updates as the next system organizes. For now, most regions can expect a quieter close to the holiday weekend once the storm moves offshore.
Tips for Staying Safe and Informed
- Keep an eye on local forecasts every six hours leading up to travel.
- Download regional weather apps that send real-time alerts.
- Avoid unnecessary driving during heavy snow or freezing rain.
- Check with airlines before heading to the airport to minimize waiting time.
- Dress in layers, as wind chills may drop faster than expected.
Small adjustments now can make the difference between a smooth trip and hours of delays.
The upcoming holiday will test travelers’ patience but also deliver classic seasonal beauty across much of the country. Whether your plans include snowy roads or sunny skies, share how the weather is shaping your Thanksgiving week in the comments and keep checking for local updates as the holiday approaches.