Millions of Americans heading out for Thanksgiving week may face significant travel challenges as powerful weather systems threaten to disrupt what could be a record-breaking holiday rush. On Monday, about 9 million people across Texas, southern Arkansas, and northern Louisiana are under the threat of severe storms capable of producing large hail, damaging winds, and even tornadoes. An additional 7 million residents in central and northern Texas—as well as parts of Oklahoma and Arkansas—are at risk for flash flooding, with heavy downpours expected to drop as much as 5 inches of rain in some areas, according to NBC News.
The National Weather Service says the severe weather and flooding risk will shift eastward through the Arklatex region, reaching the Tennessee Valley and portions of the Deep South by Tuesday. At the same time, a separate storm system is delivering snow to the northern Rockies and is forecast to sweep across the Upper Midwest and into New England by Wednesday. Areas such as Montana, the Dakotas, Minnesota, and northern Michigan may receive 3 to 6 inches of snow, with higher totals possible in northern Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Together, the two systems are expected to create hazardous driving conditions and potential flight delays as an estimated 82 million people prepare to travel 50 miles or more for the holiday, AAA reports. Although weather conditions are expected to improve in most regions by Thanksgiving Day, lingering snow and strong winds may continue in parts of the Northeast and Pacific Northwest. Travel experts recommend planning for delays and having alternative arrangements ready. NPR notes that while the return trip should be smoother for most travelers, the best times to hit the road are before noon on Tuesday and at 11 a.m. on Wednesday.