**Thanksgiving Travelers Brace for Severe Weather Across the United States**

As millions of Americans gear up for Thanksgiving travel, two potent storm systems are set to deliver a mix of snow, wind, and rain across vast portions of the United States this week, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). More than 25 million individuals are currently under winter storm watches or warnings.

The first storm, which is expected to bring severe thunderstorms and potential tornadoes to the central and southern Plains on Monday, will interact with arctic air as it progresses northward. Widespread snowfall is anticipated across the Dakotas, Minnesota, and Wisconsin on Tuesday and Wednesday, with the possibility of up to a foot of snow in parts of North Dakota. The NWS warns that these conditions may be accompanied by gusty winds, reducing visibility on roadways.

Simultaneously, an upper-level low-pressure system is expected to form over the Great Lakes later in the week, resulting in cooler temperatures, cold rain extending from the Ohio Valley to the East Coast, and accumulating snow in the central Appalachians and parts of the Northeast. This system may deliver up to 6 inches of snow on Thursday and Friday, notably in elevated areas.

In the Pacific Northwest, beginning Monday, a prolonged "atmospheric river event" is forecasted to bring heavy rainfall and snow to Oregon and Northern California. The NWS predicts widespread rainfall amounts of 4 to 7 inches through Wednesday, raising concerns about river flooding and potential mudslides. This heavy precipitation is expected to persist beyond midweek.

Looking further ahead, while detailed forecasts are not yet available beyond seven days, the U.S. Climate Prediction Center indicates a higher probability of rain in the Pacific Northwest, upper Midwest, and Great Lakes during the early part of the following week.

According to AAA, nearly 80 million people are expected to travel more than 50 miles for Thanksgiving, with road traffic peaking on Tuesday and Wednesday. Travelers are advised to stay updated on weather conditions and prepare for possible delays.