Thanksgiving week expected to be milder with scattered rain and limited storms

The National Weather Service said the current cold snap affecting much of the eastern United States will weaken by mid-November, giving way to above-average temperatures across the region, according to NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center (CPC). The CPC expects the warmth to extend to all areas east of the Rockies by around Nov. 20, while the Far West will remain cooler than average.

Anthony Artusa, a meteorologist with the CPC, told USA TODAY that most of the country will experience above-average temperatures during Thanksgiving week, though the warmth will not be record-breaking. He noted that the southern Plains could see the first seasonal freeze, with Oklahoma and Texas potentially experiencing sub-freezing temperatures.

AccuWeather foresees rain and thunderstorms in parts of the South, while the northern tier, including the Northeast, is projected to stay mostly dry. Chad Merrill, an AccuWeather meteorologist, said heavy rain could disrupt travel in a few southern locations, but overall conditions should remain warm in the South and East for several days before cooling later in the week.

For the New York City Thanksgiving parade, Merrill said the day is expected to be dry, though early-morning temperatures may feel chilly. Rain chances could rise in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast later in the week, with cooler air arriving toward the end of the holiday period.

In the central United States, AccuWeather predicts dry and warmer than normal weather for much of the Midwest and Ohio Valley, while parts of Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas may encounter heavier rain and thunderstorms early in the travel period. Later in the week, the southern Plains could see additional rain and a brief chill, and the Great Lakes region may experience snow showers.

The Gulf Coast and Southeast are likely to see periods of rain and possible thunderstorms, which could affect outdoor gatherings and travel plans, according to Merrill. He emphasized that timing of rain will determine its impact on activities.

On the West Coast, Artusa said Pacific storms could bring rain to Oregon and northern California, though confidence is limited regarding coastal impacts. AccuWeather added that higher elevations in the western mountains, especially the Sierra Nevada, are expected to receive snow, making the region a focus for holiday ski travelers.