As Christmas approaches, travelers across the United States are gearing up for a holiday journey that promises a mix of weather challenges and pleasant conditions depending on their destinations.
From snow in the Great Lakes to rain in the Southeast, holiday plans may require extra caution and preparation.
Here’s a breakdown of what travelers can expect in the days leading up to Christmas and how it may impact your holiday itinerary, per WFAA.
Texas travelers can breathe a sigh of relief as most of the state remains quiet through Monday.
However, rain is expected to develop on Tuesday and Thursday, especially along and east of the I-35 corridor. Some storms could intensify on Tuesday, with the potential for large hail and strong winds southeast of Dallas-Fort Worth.
Fortunately, Christmas Day itself will be dry, making it suitable for driving or last-minute holiday plans. However, Texans are advised to keep an eye on local forecasts and road conditions if traveling during the rainy periods earlier in the week.
Also, snow will move into the Great Lakes region on Monday, disrupting major hubs like Chicago and Cleveland. These snowy conditions could lead to flight delays and hazardous driving. Meanwhile, the Southeast braces for rainy weather around Atlanta and the Gulf Coast, with slick roads and potential travel delays. In contrast, the Southwest will enjoy dry and mild conditions, making destinations in Arizona and New Mexico appealing for holiday travelers seeking warm, stress-free weather.
Christmas Eve brings a fresh wave of weather challenges as snow arrives in the Northeast, impacting cities like Boston and surrounding areas.
By Christmas Day, snow will persist in the Mountain West, particularly around Salt Lake City, creating scenic but potentially tricky travel conditions. The Southeast will see widespread rain from Nashville to Atlanta, impacting road trips and flights. Meanwhile, the Southwest remains a haven of dry, mild weather, and Florida offers warm holiday temperatures for those celebrating in the Sunshine State.
On Thursday, December 26, the northern Rockies will see heavy snow, complicating post-Christmas travel plans in the region. Rain will drench the Pacific Northwest Coast, creating slippery roads and potential delays for drivers and flyers. Travelers in these areas should prepare for challenging conditions and pack accordingly to ensure a safe return from their holiday festivities. The Southwest will once again remain dry.
Whether driving across state lines or catching a flight to visit loved ones, keeping an eye on local and national forecasts is essential.