by Meteorologists from AccuWeather are warning 50 million residents across states from Colorado to Michigan to prepare for a developing snowstorm this weekend. The storm threatens major travel delays for drivers, trains, and planes returning from Thanksgiving celebrations.
While the system is expected to move quickly, some regions could still see up to 12 inches of snow, particularly in southeastern South Dakota, Iowa, southern Minnesota, northwestern Illinois, southern and central Wisconsin, and Michigan’s Lower Peninsula.
On the southern edge of the storm, severe thunderstorms are possible on Saturday across northeastern Texas, western Louisiana, and southern Arkansas, with additional storms forecast in parts of the Southeast on Sunday.
Lake Effect Snow to Continue Through Friday
The National Weather Service (NWS) reports that heavy lake effect snow and gusty winds, including localized blizzard conditions, will persist across the Great Lakes into Thanksgiving Day and continue through Friday in areas around Lakes Erie and Ontario.
Lake effect snow occurs when cold air passes over the warmer waters of the lakes, producing moisture-rich clouds and heavy snowfall. Following this, a new winter storm is expected to form over the northern and central Rockies Friday, tracking across the central Plains, Midwest, and Great Lakes by the weekend.
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to Feature Star-Studded Lineup
The 99th annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will step off in New York City on Thursday at 8:30 a.m. ET, combining tradition with new attractions. The parade will feature 34 giant balloons, 28 floats, 11 marching bands, 33 clown crews, four balloonicles, nine performance groups, and 14 specialty units.
Debuting balloons include Buzz Lightyear, PAC-MAN, Shrek’s Onion Carriage, and Mario from Nintendo, alongside Netflix characters Derpy Tiger and Sussie. Performances will include Cynthia Erivo, portraying Elphaba in the upcoming Wicked film.
New Jersey Cold Front Brings Rain, Wind, and Chilly Temps
A strong cold front will sweep through New Jersey on Wednesday evening, causing showers followed by gusty winds up to 40 mph and sharply dropping temperatures. Highs on Thanksgiving Day will only reach the low to mid-40s, with wind chills in the 30s along the coast.
Even stronger winds are expected on Friday, with gusts reaching 45 mph. Northern areas may experience flurries, and temperatures will remain cold into the weekend, with highs in the low 40s. Rain returns Sunday, with another cold front early next week bringing drier, colder air and the potential for the season’s first mixed rain and snow event.
Triad Region Faces Chilly Thanksgiving
After a mild Wednesday, the Triad region will see temperatures drop sharply due to two cold fronts. Northwest winds will usher in colder air Wednesday night, with gusts up to 30 mph.
Thanksgiving Day will begin in the mid-30s, with highs only reaching the low 50s under breezy conditions. Black Friday shoppers should expect morning lows in the upper 20s and highs in the low 40s, with wind chills making it feel closer to the mid-30s. The chill continues through the weekend, affecting football fans attending NC State vs. UNC, with temperatures in the mid-30s at kickoff.
Plan Ahead and Stay Safe
With a winter storm, lake effect snow, and cold fronts all converging across the country, residents are urged to prepare for hazardous travel conditions, dress warmly, and stay informed through local weather alerts.
How are you preparing for the snow and cold this Thanksgiving weekend? Share your tips and plans in the comments below!
