TAMPA, Fla. — We have beautiful, blue skies and great travel for most of the country this weekend. Don't get used to it!
You can blame an energized jet stream that has already produced a bomb cyclone this week and now an atmospheric river of rain that continues to pound the West Coast. All of this energy in the atmosphere will stir up a lot of trouble farther east for most of the United States just in time for peak travel for Thanksgiving Week.
Our 10 Tampa Bay weather team is tracking not one but two major storm systems across the country. This will lead to travel delays across the country. If you’re hitting the road or hopping on a flight, make sure you’re staying updated on the forecast at both your departure and destination points — you’re going to want to know what you’re dealing with and do not want to get stuck in the elements.
Here in Tampa to Jacksonville and over the entire state of Florida, we're in for a classic winter pattern. Get ready for a rollercoaster of temperatures as we kick off the big holiday week with a chilly blast — we’re talking 30s and 40s — so make sure you’ve got the jackets and layers ready.
But don’t get too comfortable in that cold because by Thanksgiving Day, the temps will soar right back into the 80s! It’s a warm-up that will feel like a surprise dose of summer, right when you’re expecting fall.
But when you think you've got a handle on it, the weather takes another turn. As we move into Thanksgiving weekend, the winter chill returns with a vengeance.
Temperatures will drop again, and there's even the possibility of rain in the forecast by Friday. In fact, the season’s first major snow could make an appearance in many areas across the Midwest to the Northeast and as far south as Tennessee and the Carolinas.
This could cause major headaches for travelers, particularly those hitting the roads. Snow, combined with slick conditions, could lead to big travel problems, so be sure to check your route and be prepared for potential delays — or even detours. Notice the expected snowfall accumulations expected over the next 7-10 days.
With the jet stream fueling these storm systems, things will be changing fast, so it’s critical to stay up to date. Whether you’re flying or driving, the weather is sure to throw a wrench in travel plans, especially for those traveling by car.
Keep that 10 Tampa Bay app handy, and be prepared for some serious delays.
So, while you’re packing your bags for turkey, don’t forget to pack your patience. A little weather prep will go a long way to making sure your Thanksgiving travels are as smooth as possible. Stay safe out there, and happy Thanksgiving!