Major Winter Storm Threatens Post-Thanksgiving Travel Across U.S.

Nov 29, 2025, 3:32 AM

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A major winter storm is poised to disrupt post-Thanksgiving travel for millions of Americans, with forecasts predicting significant snowfall and hazardous conditions across at least 12 states. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued warnings for heavy snow, particularly in the Midwest and Great Lakes regions, where accumulations of six inches or more are expected.

As many as 82 million Americans are anticipated to travel more than 50 miles from home during this holiday period, making the timing of this storm particularly concerning. The storm is expected to commence on Friday, bringing snow from the northern Rockies and Plains, and spreading eastward throughout the weekend.

Travelers heading to popular destinations should prepare for difficult conditions. Winter storm warnings are currently in effect from Montana to New York, with meteorologists predicting that areas in the Midwest, including Chicago and Milwaukee, could see between 8 to 12 inches of snow by the end of the weekend.

The storm's impact on travel is compounded by the fact that Sunday is projected to be one of the busiest air travel days in TSA history, with over 3 million travelers expected to pass through airport security. Major airports in affected regions, such as Chicago O'Hare and Midway, may experience significant delays due to the inclement weather.

On Friday, snow is forecast to begin in the northern Plains, expanding into Iowa and Nebraska as the day progresses. By Saturday, the storm is expected to intensify, with heavy snowfall predicted across the Midwest, particularly affecting cities like St. Louis and Detroit, where travel conditions could become dangerous.

In addition to snow, gusty winds are anticipated, which could lead to whiteout conditions and further complicate travel. Wind gusts could reach up to 50 mph in some areas, particularly in the Great Lakes region, where lake-effect snow is expected to exacerbate conditions.

The NWS has advised travelers to delay unnecessary travel during the storm, emphasizing the importance of remaining aware of changing conditions. They recommend that individuals who must travel take precautions, such as ensuring their vehicles are winterized and allowing extra time to reach their destinations.

As the storm moves eastward, it is expected to bring rain to the Northeast, with temperatures too warm for widespread snow in that region. However, travelers along the I-95 corridor should anticipate slick roads and potential delays if they travel on Sunday.

Overall, this winter storm poses a significant threat to post-Thanksgiving travel plans for millions across the United States, highlighting the need for travelers to stay informed and prepared for changing weather conditions.

In summary, as millions return home from their Thanksgiving celebrations, they face the potential for severe weather that could impact their journeys significantly. With heavy snow forecasted and travel expected to peak, the combination of these factors creates a challenging situation for holiday travelers.

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