Published on November 20, 2025
US travel faces another roadblock as winter storms set to hit Thanksgiving travel plans, bringing heavy snowfall, icy roads, and potential flight delays. As millions of Americans prepare for one of the busiest travel periods of the year, early weather forecasts predict severe conditions, especially in the Midwest, Northern U.S., and parts of the Northeast. The storm’s expected impact on air, train, and road travel could cause widespread disruptions, with travelers facing significant delays and cancellations. With over 82 million people expected to travel this Thanksgiving, the combination of winter weather and heightened holiday demand poses a serious challenge for both travelers and transportation systems alike.
Thanksgiving, one of the busiest travel periods in the United States, is quickly approaching. Millions of Americans are preparing to head home for the holiday, eager to reunite with loved ones and enjoy the traditional festivities. However, this year, travelers may face significant hurdles as a powerful winter storm system is expected to impact travel plans across the country.

With more than 82 million people expected to travel during the Thanksgiving period, as estimated by AAA, weather experts are predicting hazardous conditions that could affect flights, roadways, and trains. Early weather predictions have already pointed to a potentially severe winter storm that could bring heavy snow, freezing temperatures, and dangerous travel conditions to the Midwest, Northern U.S., and parts of the East Coast. In addition to the storm’s impact on travel, the logistical challenges posed by the pandemic and the recent government shutdown could compound the travel headaches for many.

Winter Storms Set to Impact Thanksgiving Week Travel

As millions of Americans prepare for the holidays, the weather is expected to throw a major wrench into their travel plans. Early forecasts indicate that the Thanksgiving week will see widespread snow, rain, and potentially life-threatening conditions, especially across the northern parts of the country.

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Meteorologists are warning that a major winter storm is developing over the Midwest, which could bring up to 8 inches of snow to specific areas. The storm is expected to start as a heavy, wet snow that will transition into powdery snowflakes as temperatures drop. This transition could create additional hazards, such as blowing and drifting snow, making driving conditions even more dangerous.
In addition to snow, the storm will bring strong winds, which could further impair visibility on roads, making travel conditions treacherous. While the National Weather Service has not officially issued blizzard warnings for the region yet, they are cautioning that blizzard-like conditions, including winds exceeding 35 mph and reduced visibility, may be experienced in certain areas.

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States like Minnesota, Iowa, Michigan, and northern New England are expected to face the worst of the storm. Travelers heading into or out of these regions should be prepared for possible travel disruptions, including flight cancellations, road closures, and delays on rail lines.

Key States and Regions Expected to be Impacted

Midwest (Iowa, Minnesota, Michigan)

The Upper Midwest, particularly states like Minnesota, Iowa, and Michigan, will likely see the heaviest snowfalls. These areas are forecasted to experience widespread snow, with accumulations reaching up to 8 inches in some areas. The snow is expected to be wet initially, which could cause slippery conditions, but as temperatures continue to drop, the snow will become lighter and more powdery, leading to blowing and drifting snow, particularly in open areas.
In Minnesota, snowfall will begin midweek and could last into Thanksgiving Day. In Iowa, heavy snow, combined with strong winds, may create dangerous driving conditions across highways, including Interstate 80 and Interstate 35, which are major travel corridors during the holiday season. Similarly, northern Michigan could see several inches of snow, making travel to popular destinations like Traverse City and the Upper Peninsula treacherous.

Northern New England (Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont)

Northern New England is also expected to be hit hard by the storm. States such as Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont will likely experience heavy snow, especially in the higher elevations. As is typical with winter storms in this region, travelers should expect poor visibility, slick roads, and potential delays in both air and ground transportation.
Popular winter destinations such as Mount Washington in New Hampshire or Sugarloaf in Maine may experience significant snowfall, which could impact travelers heading to ski resorts or other tourist attractions in the region.

Northeast and Great Lakes

Beyond the Upper Midwest, the storm system will spread eastward, affecting the Northeast and Great Lakes regions. States like New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio could face significant snowfall, although the accumulations may not be as severe as in the Upper Midwest. These areas, however, may still see travel delays, particularly on major interstate routes such as Interstate 90 and Interstate 80.
In the Great Lakes region, including Chicago, Cleveland, and Detroit, freezing temperatures will exacerbate the hazardous conditions, especially for travelers taking to the roads. Air travel could also be affected, with delays expected at major hubs like Chicago O’Hare International Airport, which serves as a primary transit point for those flying to destinations in the Midwest and East Coast.

Southern States and Plains

While the Southern U.S. is not expected to experience significant snowfalls, travelers in Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas may still face winter-related hazards. These states could see ice storms and freezing rain, which could result in dangerous driving conditions, particularly for those traveling on elevated highways or bridges. States in the Plains region may also face a mix of rain and snow, with some areas of the Missouri Valley experiencing freezing rain, making roads slippery and hazardous.

Impact on Air Travel

With over 82 million people expected to travel during Thanksgiving, air travel is likely to be the hardest-hit mode of transportation due to the winter storm. The combination of severe weather and heavy air traffic could lead to significant delays and cancellations at major airports across the country.
Airlines have already begun to adjust their schedules, and travelers are advised to monitor flight statuses closely. The Midwest, Great Lakes, and Northeast regions will likely see the most disruption, with airports like Chicago O’Hare, Detroit Metropolitan, Minneapolis-Saint Paul, and Boston Logan expected to experience a high volume of cancellations or delays. It is also wise for travelers to check their flight status and stay in touch with their airlines, as the weather may lead to cascading delays across the country.
Additionally, the combination of winter storms and increased passenger traffic is expected to cause crowding at airport terminals, leading to longer wait times at security checkpoints and baggage claim areas.

Train Travel: Delays Expected

Train travel could also be severely impacted by the winter weather. Major routes operated by Amtrak, especially in the Midwest, Northeast, and Great Lakes regions, are expected to experience delays. Rail lines in states like Michigan, New York, and Ohio could be slowed due to snow accumulation on the tracks and reduced visibility for train operators. Travelers are advised to check Amtrak’s schedule for any service changes or delays.

Road Travel: Hazardous Conditions and Closures

For those who are driving to their destinations, winter storms present a particularly dangerous challenge. The Midwest and Northern U.S. will likely see snow accumulation on major highways and interstates, creating treacherous road conditions. In states like Iowa and Minnesota, authorities may close roads or issue travel restrictions for large vehicles to ensure safety. On Interstate 80, Interstate 35, and Interstate 90, travelers may face reduced speeds and delays, while some rural areas could become inaccessible due to snow and drifting.
Local and state governments may issue snow emergencies, which could result in road closures and restricted access. Travelers should consider the possibility of detours, especially in rural or mountainous regions.
For those driving in the South, while snow and ice are less likely, freezing rain can make roads dangerously slick, particularly on bridges and overpasses. Drivers should keep an eye on weather forecasts, have emergency supplies on hand, and drive cautiously.

Preparing for Thanksgiving Travel

With so many factors at play, preparing for Thanksgiving travel this year requires flexibility and vigilance. Meteorologists are urging travelers to monitor forecasts closely and adjust their plans as needed. Travelers heading to or through the affected regions should take extra precautions, such as:

• Allow Extra Time: Be prepared for delays and plan to arrive at your airport, train station, or highway rest stop earlier than usual.
• Check Your Itinerary: Stay in touch with airlines and rail providers for real-time updates on cancellations or delays.
• Prepare for Emergencies: If driving, ensure your vehicle is winter-ready, with a full tank of gas, snow tires, blankets, water, and food.
• Avoid Travel During Peak Storm Hours: If possible, adjust your departure time to avoid the worst of the snowstorm. Early-morning or late-night travel may offer safer conditions.

US travel faces another roadblock as winter storms set to hit Thanksgiving travel plans, with heavy snow and icy conditions expected to disrupt flights, roadways, and trains. The storm is forecasted to impact key travel hubs and highways, creating hazardous conditions for millions of holiday travelers.
As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, winter storms are setting the stage for potential disruptions to travel plans across the U.S. With snow, ice, and freezing rain expected to affect major travel hubs and highways, travelers need to be prepared for a bumpy ride this year. From air and rail delays to hazardous road conditions, this winter storm could significantly impact Thanksgiving week travel, particularly in the Midwest, Northeast, and Northern U.S. regions. To ensure a smooth and safe trip, travelers are advised to stay informed, adjust their schedules as necessary, and always prepare for the unexpected.

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Tags: Thanksgiving travel disruptions, US, winter storms

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