As Christmas approaches, those planning to travel early for the holidays should be aware of potential disruptions. A series of storm systems are poised to move across a significant portion of the United States, potentially causing delays on roads and at airports. Travelers in the eastern half of the country should particularly prepare for periods of inclement weather.
According to the FOX Forecast Center, the Upper Midwest region might be the only area in the US that avoids major impacts from these incoming storms this week. Cities and regions east of the Mississippi River are likely to experience heavy rainfall and the possibility of winter weather conditions, which could significantly impede holiday travel plans.
Upper Midwest Weather Forecast: Region Expected to Escape Major Storm Impacts During Early Christmas Travel Week
The week’s weather pattern is beginning with a cold front that developed on Monday, stretching from the Great Lakes down to the southern Plains. This front is expected to move eastward, gradually weakening as it reaches the Northeast. However, before it dissipates, winter weather alerts have been issued across a broad area from the Great Lakes to the mid-Atlantic and Northeast. Starting Sunday and continuing through Monday, this region can expect rain, snow, and possibly freezing rain, creating hazardous travel conditions.
Fox Weather Logo: Source for Christmas Travel Weather Updates and Forecasts
The FOX Forecast Center notes that while higher elevations in the interior Northeast and mid-Atlantic are more likely to see snowfall, areas closer to the heavily trafficked Interstate 95 corridor will primarily experience rain. This rain, combined with potential fog, could still lead to considerable travel delays and slower driving conditions.
Foggy Road Conditions: Travelers Face Potential Delays Due to Weather During Early Christmas Travel
Following this initial system, a more potent area of low pressure is predicted to develop over the Tennessee Valley. This system is expected to bring several inches of rain to the lower Mississippi, Tennessee, and Ohio valleys throughout the middle of the week. As it progresses, this system will move towards the mid-Atlantic, spreading significant rainfall along its path. Wednesday is anticipated to be the day when the most substantial effects of this system are felt in the mid-Atlantic region, as it moves offshore and intensifies.
Rainy Weather Travel Conditions: Series of Storms Threatening Christmas Travel in Eastern US
While the rain will be the primary concern for many, colder air is expected to return to parts of New England and the Northeast following this system. This shift could potentially lead to more snow, particularly in areas that have already experienced significant snowfall in recent weeks. Whether this will materialize into a major snow event remains uncertain at this time.
Looking further ahead, the FOX Forecast Center indicates preliminary signs of a potentially impactful winter storm that could develop and affect the East Coast. However, details about this potential storm are still unclear. Current computer forecast models suggest precipitation will spread across the East Coast on Thursday and Friday, but more precise details are expected to emerge in the coming days as the situation develops.
Winter Weather Alerts: Travelers Advised to Check Forecasts for Snow, Rain, and Freezing Rain Before Christmas Travel
For those with early Christmas travel plans, it is crucial to stay informed about the evolving weather conditions. Regularly checking the forecast, especially through resources like the free FOX Weather app with enabled notifications, is highly recommended to remain updated on potential travel disruptions and adjust plans accordingly.
