The impending Arctic chill is set to usher in a true sense of winter as it sweeps across the United States this Thanksgiving. Expect temperatures to dip significantly, accompanied by a chance of snow in several regions.
As Siberian air pushes into the US, this will be the first substantial cold spell of the season, just as November draws to a close in 2024. According to Weather Track US, the anticipated Arctic air mass is forecasted to plunge temperatures up to a remarkable 25°F below the usual seasonal norms in certain locales.
The majority of the continental US will experience a temperature drop of at least 10°F below average, ensuring a frosty Thanksgiving this year.
Snow is expected for those near the Great Lakes and throughout the Northeast, while even the warmer regions of the Gulf Coast and parts of the Southwest won’t be spared from the freeze.
The National Weather Service has echoed these predictions on social media, stating, “Prepare for harsh wind chills in the Upper Midwest and significant snowfall in areas surrounding the Great Lakes as this cold wave descends.”
The repercussions of an Arctic outbreak can be far-reaching and severe. These powerful cold air fronts can cause uninsulated pipes to freeze and burst, resulting in extensive water damage. Additionally, shallow waterways sometimes face large fish die-offs due to the rapid temperature drop.
Agricultural sectors are vulnerable as well, with citrus groves, tropical plants, and seasonal fruits like strawberries facing potential harm.
Moreover, the increased use of heating devices during these chilly spells comes with risks. Improper operation can lead to fires, and insufficient ventilation of fuel-based heaters can result in hazardous carbon monoxide buildup.
Economically, the impact of these cold spells, especially in areas like the Gulf Coast, can be comparable to that of a mild hurricane, affecting both infrastructure and livelihoods.
In light of this, the National Weather Service Southern Region advises staying updated through multiple channels for weather alerts as the Arctic outbreak is predicted to linger until Monday, December 2, 2024.
They recommend keeping a NOAA weather radio on hand during Thanksgiving festivities to stay informed of any weather warnings that may arise.
Already, forecasts suggest a soggy Thanksgiving for most of the East, with snow potentially gracing the Northeast and New England while thunderstorms loom over the Southeast.
Vehicles traverse snowy conditions north of Lake Tahoe in the Sierra Nevada during a powerful winter storm in Truckee, California on March 1, 2024 | Source: Getty Images
As November 29th and 30th approach, expect travel disruptions due to snowfall across parts of Central US. Post-Thanksgiving travel could also face complications due to the Arctic chill gripping portions of the Central and Southern United States.
Furthermore, heavy lake-effect snow near the Great Lakes might pose additional challenges for travelers post-holiday.
