Weather Challenges and Anticipations for Christmas Travelers 2024

As the holiday season approaches, millions of travelers gear up for their holiday journeys, but 2024 brings with it a set of weather challenges that could affect plans for many. This article delves into the key weather forecasts and travel tips for those planning to move across the country this Christmas season.

Weather Warnings Across the U.S.

The National Weather Service’s Weather Prediction Center has issued warnings for potential snow and rain storms stretching from the Pacific Northwest to New England. These weather systems are expected to impact travel plans for many Americans, especially those traveling earlier in the holiday season.

Northern Plains and Midwest Challenges

– A storm system crossing the northern plains into the upper Midwest and Great Lakes region could bring between 3 and 6 inches of snow from Wednesday to Saturday morning.

– Strong, gusty winds during this snowstorm could hamper visibility in regions like the northern Rockies and high plains.

– Parts of northern Wisconsin can anticipate heavy snowfall before the storm moves east.

Eastern Cold Snap in New England

– As the storm reaches New England, temperatures are forecasted to drop 15 to 20 degrees below normal, resulting in a significant cold snap.

– Fortunately, this frigid weather isn’t expected to persist much beyond the weekend.

Pacific Northwest and West Coast Conditions

– Heavy rain, mountain snow, and wind are anticipated in Washington, Idaho, Oregon, and Northern California early next week and potentially on Christmas Day itself.

– These storms might cause air traffic delays at airports from San Francisco to Seattle.

– Road travel could equally be challenging, especially across high terrains such as California’s Donner Pass and Snoqualmie Pass in Washington.

Christmas Travel Dry Spell

Central states including Tennessee, Kentucky, Arkansas, Ohio, Indiana, West Virginia, and eastern Texas may experience a wet and rainy Christmas Eve. However, this will not be overly disruptive for travelers.

What to Watch For: A Warm Christmas

The good news is a warm Christmas is on the horizon. The Climate Prediction Center forecasts above-average temperatures spreading across the country, beginning on Christmas Eve and extending through December 30. Notably, Southern Florida might be the exception, where average temperatures are anticipated. Other notable forecasts include:

– Los Angeles is expected to reach the high 60s on December 25.
– Chicago may see temperatures in the low-to-mid-40s.
– New York City could experience similar chilly weather to Chicago.
– Dallas is set to enjoy temperatures surpassing 70 degrees.

Travel Insights and Expectations

This increased warm spell across much of the country falls in line with expectations from AAA of 119.3 million people traveling the States over the holidays between December 21 and January 1. Here’s a breakdown of some critical pointers for holiday travel:

• Of those traveling, 90%, or 107 million people are expected to travel by car.
• The decline in gas prices compared to last year may encourage more road trips.
• Some of the cities experiencing the highest rental demand this holiday include Denver, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, Oahu, Orlando, Phoenix, and Tampa.
• Nationwide, road travel times can be up to 30% longer than usual, with Boston, New York City, Seattle, and Washington, DC, potentially facing double the normal delays.
• The worst times to travel by car before Christmas are between 1 and 6 p.m. on December 23, 3 and 8 p.m. on December 22, 4 and 8 p.m. on December 21, and 1 and 8 p.m. on Friday, December 20.

Air Travel Projections and Pricing

7.85 million people are predicted to travel by air this Christmas, slightly more than the previous year’s record of 7.5 million. However, flights have grown more expensive, averaging a 4% increase in prices with domestic ticket costs reaching approximately $830.

Conclusion: Navigating a Challenging Holiday Season

While weather conditions pose hurdles for early Christmas travelers, those adventuring closer to the holiday may avoid these disruptions if projections hold. With a carefully planned travel itinerary and an understanding of the trending weather conditions, holiday travelers can still enjoy memorable celebrations, even amid some of these challenges.

Keep an eye on your local forecasts and stay abreast of any travel advisories. Wishing everyone a safe and warm holiday season on the roads and in the skies!

Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/maryroeloffs/2024/12/18/weather-could-disrupt-early-christmas-travelers-ahead-of-a-warm-holiday-for-most/