Thanksgiving Weather Forecast: Severe Storms to Hit First, Followed by Arctic Blast Across Most of the U.S.
UNITED STATES — As Thanksgiving approaches, meteorologists are warning of a major weather twist that could bring both severe storms and an Arctic cold front across much of the country — creating one of the most dramatic pre-holiday temperature drops in recent years.
Forecast models show that the week leading up to Thanksgiving will start with strong storms and heavy rain, followed by a rapid plunge in temperatures as Arctic air sweeps southward into the central and eastern U.S.
Severe Weather to Arrive Early Next Week
According to early forecasts, the first system is expected to roll in late next week, bringing thunderstorms and heavy rainfall across parts of the South, Midwest, and lower Plains. The pattern is typical of strong pre-holiday systems but could be more intense this year due to high moisture and unstable air.
“This looks like the kind of setup that brings severe weather early in the week — followed by a major cold front that wipes out any warmth in its path,” forecasters said.
Residents in Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia are being advised to monitor forecasts closely, as gusty winds and isolated tornadoes may develop before the colder air moves in.
Thanksgiving Week: Arctic Air Takes Over
Once the storms move out, a sharp Arctic front will drop temperatures rapidly — potentially 25 to 40 degrees below normal in some areas. The cold blast is forecast to extend from the northern Rockies down to Texas and east through the Carolinas, covering nearly two-thirds of the continental U.S.
Meteorologists say the system will bring a “polar plunge” of Arctic-origin air, creating conditions that could feel more like January than late November.
“This is the kind of cold that makes you rethink every bad thing you’ve ever said about winter,” one forecaster joked online, noting that Thanksgiving highs in some cities could struggle to reach the 30s.
Expected Temperature Drops Across the U.S.
- Midwest and Great Lakes: Highs in the upper 20s to mid-30s by midweek.
- Southeast and Deep South: 30–40° temperature drop expected by Thanksgiving.
- Texas and Central Plains: Coldest air of the season so far, with potential for frost and early freeze warnings.
- Northeast: Cooler air arrives later in the week but could extend into the holiday weekend.
Meanwhile, Florida will remain mostly insulated from the Arctic air, with temperatures still hovering around the 70s — a sharp contrast to neighboring states experiencing winter-like chill.
What It Means for Thanksgiving Travelers
The timing of this cold front could impact millions of travelers heading out for the holiday, particularly in regions where rain transitions to ice or snow. Meteorologists are urging early travelers to plan ahead and monitor local conditions closely.
“Travelers heading home Tuesday or Wednesday may need to account for strong winds, slippery roads, or flight delays due to the sharp temperature swings,” weather experts advised.
Bottom Line: A Thanksgiving Temperature Shock
The U.S. will experience two major weather phases next week:
- Severe storms and heavy rain early in the week.
- An Arctic outbreak bringing the coldest Thanksgiving week in years.
Residents are encouraged to prepare now for the cold snap, checking heaters, bundling up, and stocking up on winter supplies.
For continued updates on regional forecasts and safety alerts, stay connected with NapervilleLocal.com.
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.