As millions of Americans prepare to hit the road and skies for Thanksgiving, a major storm system is threatening to disrupt travel plans across much of the country, turning what should be a joyful holiday into a logistical nightmare for many.
Storms Loom Over the Holiday Rush
Thanksgiving 2025 falls on
Thursday, November 27, and with it comes the annual surge of travelers. According to AAA,
nearly 82 million Americans are expected to travel by car or air this year, making it one of the busiest holiday travel periods in recent memory. However, the weather forecast is far from festive.
A
significant storm system is predicted to sweep across the eastern two-thirds of the United States, bringing heavy rain, possible snow in northern regions, and even the risk of severe thunderstorms. AccuWeather meteorologist Alex Sosnowski warns that the storm will hit during the busiest travel times, with delays likely on
Tuesday, November 25, and Wednesday, November 26. The system is expected to move from Texas through the Midwest and into the Northeast, affecting major travel hubs like Chicago, Minneapolis, Atlanta, and even Florida.
Air and Road Travel: What to Expect
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Air Travel: Over
6 million people are expected to fly this Thanksgiving, a
2% increase from 2024. The busiest day for air travel is projected to be
Sunday, November 30, with more than 3.2 million domestic seats booked, according to aviation analytics firm Cirium. Major airports, including Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta, are bracing for record passenger volumes, with officials advising travelers to arrive at least
2½ hours before domestic flights and
three hours before international departures.
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Road Travel: The vast majority of travelers—about
73 million people—will be driving. The busiest days on the roads are expected to be
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday. AAA notes that car rentals are
15% cheaper this year compared to 2024, but the storm could still cause significant delays and hazardous conditions, especially in the Midwest and Northeast.
Holiday Traditions and Tips
Despite the weather, Thanksgiving remains a time for family, food, and reflection. ABC News offers practical advice for holiday cooks, including
how to safely thaw a frozen turkey and
make-ahead pie crust recipes for those looking to simplify their holiday prep. The network also highlights the viral trend of "Ralph Lauren Christmas" decor, showing how to recreate the look on a budget.
What This Means for Travelers
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Delays and Cancellations: Expect flight delays and possible cancellations, especially in the Midwest and Northeast. Road conditions could be treacherous, with heavy rain and potential snow causing traffic jams and accidents.
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Preparation is Key: Travelers are advised to check weather forecasts, allow extra time for travel, and have backup plans in case of delays. For those driving, keeping emergency supplies in the car is a must.
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Stay Informed: Airlines and airports are urging passengers to monitor their flight status and follow official travel advisories.
The Bigger Picture
Thanksgiving 2025 is shaping up to be a holiday of contrasts: a record number of people eager to reunite with loved ones, but facing the reality of a stormy and unpredictable travel season. As the storm rolls in, the true spirit of Thanksgiving—gratitude, resilience, and community—will be tested like never before.
Sources
1. Thanksgiving 2025: Bad weather and storms likely to trigger delays ...
2. ABC News - Breaking News, Latest News and Videos
3. Busy Thanksgiving 2025 holiday travel kicks off | Here are the peak travel days
4. When is Thanksgiving 2025? What to know about the national holiday
5. Winter storms may impact holiday travel: Thanksgiving weather forecast
