As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, millions of Americans are preparing for one of the busiest travel weeks of the year.
Weather conditions often influence travel plans, and for Thanksgiving 2025, forecasts suggest a developing storm system across large parts of the United States. The upcoming pattern includes rain, thunderstorms, wind, and in some regions, the first meaningful snow of the season.
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AccuWeather meteorologists and long range forecasters from The Old Farmer’s Almanac have provided early insights into what travelers should expect. Their projections show a mix of mild temperatures in the East, colder weather across the northern tier, and potential winter conditions in parts of the Midwest and Great Lakes.
This detailed overview explains what the storm means for road travelers and air passengers, where snow is likely, and what long term winter forecasts show for states such as New Jersey.
Contents
Large Storm System
According to AccuWeather, a large storm system will affect the eastern two thirds of the United States during the days leading up to Thanksgiving. This is significant because the holiday is traditionally the busiest travel period of the year. AAA projects that in 2025, about 89 percent of holiday travelers will hit the road, and 7 percent will travel by air.
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Meteorologist Alex Sosnowski explained that the storm will move through major travel corridors on Tuesday and Wednesday, November 25 and 26. These dates fall at the height of Thanksgiving travel, increasing the likelihood of delays at airports and congestion on major highways.
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The system is expected to start in Texas and then move through the Midwest, stretching into Arkansas, eastern Missouri, southern Illinois, and parts of the Great Lakes region. It will bring widespread rainfall and areas of thunderstorms. Some of these storms may even be strong or severe.
As the storm moves eastward toward cities such as Chicago, Minneapolis, Atlanta, and eventually the Northeast, both wind and rain could disrupt flights. By Wednesday, weaker but still impactful rainfall could affect Washington DC, Philadelphia, New York City, and Boston.
Where Snow Is Possible in the Thanksgiving Storm
Although the storm will be mostly a rain event for many states, snow remains possible along the northern fringe of the system. Meteorologist Bernie Rayno noted that colder air from Canada will meet moist air from the system as it passes over the Great Lakes from Wednesday into Thursday.
This creates potential for snow in parts of Wisconsin, northern Michigan, and the Upper Peninsula. Snowfall is also possible in higher elevation areas where temperatures drop quickly behind the main front of the storm.
For these regions, drivers should be alert for slippery roads, reduced visibility, and sudden temperature drops. Air travelers using airports in northern Michigan or Wisconsin may also face delays.
Weather Conditions in the East
The Mid Atlantic and Northeast regions, including New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Delaware, are not expected to see snow from this particular system. Rain and wind remain the main concerns.
These conditions could affect major holiday events such as the Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City and the Dunkin Donuts Thanksgiving Day Parade in Philadelphia. Even moderate winds can disrupt large parade balloons.
Although the forecast remains uncertain for specific Thanksgiving morning conditions, early outlooks suggest that snow is very unlikely for these cities.
New Jersey Thanksgiving Forecast 2025
The Old Farmer’s Almanac predicts sunshine and cooler than average temperatures for New Jersey during Thanksgiving week. The Atlantic Corridor, which includes much of New Jersey, is expected to experience bright skies, dry roads, and crisp conditions.
This should support smooth travel without snowfall or major rainfall, according to their long range outlook.
This projection is consistent with the recent trend of warmer than normal fall temperatures across the region. However, northern parts of New Jersey may still feel colder than average conditions heading into late November.
When the Northeast Normally Sees the First Snowfall
The Northeast Regional Climate Center reports that the first measurable snowfall varies widely across the region. States such as Vermont and Maine may see snow as early as late September.
In contrast, cities such as Newark, New York City, Wilmington, and Philadelphia typically experience their first measurable snow between November and late December.
Recent average dates include:
Newark NJ average date for first measurable snow is November nine
Kennedy Airport NY average date is December nine
LaGuardia Airport NY average date is December ten
Wilmington DE average date is December seventeen
Philadelphia PA average date is December nineteen
Atlantic City NJ average date is December twenty three
Based on these averages, significant snow around Thanksgiving in these coastal cities is uncommon.
Winter Forecast for New Jersey 2025 to 2026
The Old Farmer’s Almanac winter outlook for 2025 to 2026 describes the season as mostly mild with occasional wild swings. For New Jersey, the forecast is milder and drier than normal. This means that snowfall totals are expected to be below average for the winter season.
Most of the snow is projected to fall around December holidays and in late winter periods. Coldest temperatures should arrive in mid to late December and in early and late January. Overall precipitation is expected to be below normal, contributing to lower than average snow accumulation.
Expected New Jersey Snow Totals Based on Long Term Averages
Average snowfall levels in New Jersey differ across the state. Coastal communities typically see lighter totals, while cities in the north and central parts of the state receive more.
Typical averages include:
Beach Haven with just above ten inches
Lambertville with thirteen inches
Newark with thirty one inches
New Brunswick with twenty nine inches
Last winter totals were lower than these averages. The National Weather Service reported Trenton with fourteen inches, Atlantic City with nearly fourteen inches, and Newark with about thirteen inches. These align with the expectation of a milder and less snowy season.
A Seasonal Shift Toward Winter Conditions
The Climate Prediction Center notes that after Thanksgiving, colder air will push into the western and northern parts of the country. This will create more winter like conditions moving into December. The central and northern United States may experience colder than normal temperatures and a greater chance of heavy snow in early December.
For travelers, this means that conditions could shift rapidly after the holiday weekend. Anyone planning extended trips should stay updated with local weather alerts.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving week in 2025 will bring a mix of travel challenges and calmer regional conditions. For much of the country, the large storm system moving from Texas through the Midwest and toward the East will create rain and thunderstorms that may slow down road and air travel. Snow will be limited mainly to the Great Lakes and Upper Midwest.
For New Jersey and the broader Mid Atlantic region, Thanksgiving Day is expected to be cool, sunny, and dry. Winter will likely be mild overall in the Northeast, with lower than average snowfall.
As always, travelers should plan ahead, monitor updated forecasts, and prepare for possible delays. With advance preparation, the holiday weekend can remain safe and enjoyable despite shifting weather conditions.
Thanksgiving: Read More
- Thanksgiving winter storm forecast 2025 – BR
- Thanksgiving Weather Forecast – USAToday
- Thanksgiving Travel – The Weather Channel
- Forecast – MPR News
