Storms Threaten Thanksgiving Travel Across the U.S.

This week, significant winter storm activity poses challenges for Thanksgiving travelers with rain, snow, and strong winds expected across the United States.

CBS meteorologist Nikki Nolan reports two distinct storm systems will affect the country on Tuesday. The first will shower rain over the Ohio Valley and eventually the Northeast by day's end. The second will launch a barrage of heavy snow and powerful winds across the northern Midwest through Wednesday.

Winter storm warnings are active across parts of North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. Areas like Grand Forks, ND, are under alert through Tuesday night with predictions of up to six inches of snow coupled with gusts reaching 35 mph.

In the Twin Cities, meteorologists warn of snowfall exceeding one inch per hour with winds potentially escalating to 45 mph, raising concerns for blizzard conditions.

The Twin Cities are experiencing a two-part storm, starting with rain on Monday and transitioning to snow, possibly reaching up to eight inches by Wednesday.

Chicago faces a spell of rain and fog, with more significant weather changes expected as a cold front approaches midweek, causing temperatures to plunge around Thanksgiving.

Upstate New York battles fierce winds on Tuesday, while areas like New York City brace for thunderstorms. These conditions risk travel disruptions through and beyond Thanksgiving.

For regions along the Canadian border, snow could stack up to 20 or even 30 inches, coupled with gale-force winds nearing 40 mph. Travel may be hindered on key highways like I-29, I-90, and I-94, and affect airports in several major cities.

Multiple metropolitan areas, including Atlanta and Philadelphia, could experience rain, which might delay travel plans for drivers and air travelers alike, especially along critical routes and busy airports.

With the holiday influx, airports are bracing for large crowds with Chicago's hubs alone anticipating an influx of 3.6 million travelers in the holiday period.

Regional Weather Expectations for Thanksgiving

Storm Developments in Southern Florida

Maryland Experiences Rain and Cold

First Snowstorm Hits Minnesota's Travel Routes

Philadelphia's Thanksgiving: Sunshine Turned Soggy

Nationwide Rain and Snow Forecasts Ahead of Thanksgiving