As Thanksgiving approaches, millions of Americans anxiously prepare to embark on their journeys to reunite with loved ones. However, a powerful storm system sweeping across the country brings with it the potential for severe weather that could severely impact travel plans.

Beginning on Monday, a volatile day was predicted, with approximately 10 million people at risk for severe storms across areas spanning from east Texas to the lower Mississippi Valley and western Alabama. Forecasters expressed concern over the possibility of strong, long-track tornadoes after sunset, as nighttime tornadoes are known to be more than twice as deadly than those occurring during the day. Additionally, damaging winds, large hail, and heavy rain were identified as potential risks, although the speed of the system is likely to limit flash flooding.

Cities such as Jackson, Mississippi; Alexandria, Shreveport, and New Orleans in Louisiana; and Mobile, Alabama, were identified as having a high risk of severe storms on Monday. This marked the first significant tornado threat nationwide since late August, as the autumn season had been relatively calm in terms of severe weather activity.

In addition to the South and Gulf Coast states, heavy rain was expected to impact travel across parts of the Midwest and Great Lakes. Major airport hubs, including Chicago, Kansas City, St. Louis, Dallas, Houston, and New Orleans, were likely to experience rain or storm delays on Monday.

On Tuesday, the storm system was projected to move eastward, bringing rain to the Mid-Atlantic and Great Lakes regions, along with wintry precipitation to the interior Northeast. Strong to severe storms were forecasted to continue rolling across parts of the Gulf Coast, Southeast, and Mid-Atlantic. The greatest threat for tornadoes on Tuesday was identified to be southern Alabama into the Florida Panhandle. Major airport hubs, such as Chicago, Atlanta, Charlotte, the Washington D.C.-area airports, Philadelphia, and New York City-area airports, were expected to face potential weather-related delays on Tuesday due to rain, wind, or thunderstorms.

By Wednesday, the storm would be pulling away from the East Coast, though northern New England and Maine would still experience rain and snow through the evening. Hubs like Atlanta, Charlotte, Washington, Philadelphia, and New York could contend with lingering showers in the early hours, while Boston would face strong winds and rain into the afternoon.

Not to be outdone, winter weather would also disrupt travel in various parts of the country. On Monday, snowfall was expected to affect travel across Colorado, particularly in Denver, with anticipated accumulations of 2 to 6 inches and gusty winds ranging from 30 to 55 mph. On Wednesday, New England would be at risk of winter weather, with snowfall totals estimated to be around 4 inches, reaching up to 10 inches at higher elevations. A light glaze of icing was also possible.

Despite the challenging travel week ahead due to numerous weather threats, Thanksgiving itself is expected to bring relatively seasonable temperatures across the country. While the Gulf Coast may experience isolated showers and the Northern Rockies may see intermittent snow showers, the majority of the country is forecasted to remain mostly dry, ensuring a pleasant Thanksgiving for many.

As travelers brace for turbulence caused by inclement weather, it is advised to stay updated with weather alerts, exercise caution, and consider alternate plans to ensure a safe and smooth journey during this Thanksgiving holiday season.