Holiday travelers are bracing for potential disruptions as a series of storms is expected to sweep across the United States in the days leading up to Christmas. From the Pacific Northwest to the East Coast, millions of Americans could face hazardous conditions on the roads and in the skies.
AccuWeather meteorologists warn that a series of storms will move from the northern U.S. and southern Canada toward the Atlantic Coast, bringing a mix of snow, rain, and gusty winds. This weather pattern is expected to challenge the estimated 119 million people traveling 50 miles or more this holiday season, a record-breaking number according to the American Automobile Association (AAA).
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The first storm is forecasted to exit the Northeast by Friday night, leaving behind the coldest air of the season and gusty winds that could affect holiday shoppers and travelers. Shoppers in the Northeast may also encounter lingering snowfall and blustery conditions on Saturday.
“Lake-enhanced snow is likely near Chicago and off the south shores of Lake Michigan on Friday morning,” said AccuWeather Lead Long-Range Meteorologist Paul Pastelok. Additional lake-effect snow is expected to affect the Great Lakes region through the weekend, potentially disrupting travel.
Meanwhile, the Pacific Northwest and Northern California are preparing for a return of stormy conditions after a brief respite midweek.
“Multiple storms will roll in from the Pacific starting this weekend,” said Pastelok. “Rain, heavy mountain snow, and gusty winds will impact the region, with a stronger storm expected early next week.”
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This weather is likely to create hazardous conditions on mountain passes like Donner Pass in California and Snoqualmie Pass in Washington, with potential road closures. Airline travel from Seattle to San Francisco could also face delays due to poor visibility and strong winds.
A storm system moving through the Central U.S. on December 24-25 is expected to bring mostly rain but could include a mix of frozen precipitation in northern regions and the central Appalachians. While precipitation is predicted to be spotty, it could still complicate holiday travel plans.
As Christmas Day unfolds, another system forming along the Gulf Coast may bring rain to the Mississippi Valley, the Tennessee and Ohio valleys, and parts of the Northeast on December 26.
Drivers in the Gulf Coast region should be alert for dense fog, particularly during nighttime and early morning hours. Fog-related accidents have already been reported this week, and further visibility issues could result in traffic delays and flight disruptions at secondary airports.
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Travelers are advised to monitor weather forecasts and plan for potential delays. For those driving, caution is essential in areas affected by snow, rain, and fog. Meanwhile, airline passengers should prepare for possible flight delays and cancellations.
With the holiday season in full swing, weather conditions could make travel more challenging, but staying informed and flexible will help ensure a safer journey.
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