Summary
A polar vortex is expected to bring colder and snowier weather to parts of the U.S. around Thanksgiving, which could affect holiday travel. The National Weather Service forecasts these conditions could impact areas from the Pacific Northwest to the Great Plains. The cold weather is predicted to coincide with high travel volumes during the holiday week.
Key Facts
- The polar vortex is cold air from the Arctic that may move southward over the U.S.
- A combination of the polar vortex, the Madden-Julian Oscillation, and La Niña is likely to cause winter-like weather.
- The cold weather could affect areas from Seattle to Dallas and Chicago during Thanksgiving week.
- Nearly 82 million Americans plan to travel by road, and TSA expects to screen 17.8 million air travelers during the holiday period.
- The National Weather Service highlights a moderate risk of heavy snow in certain regions, including the Central Rockies and Upper Great Lakes.
- Cooler temperatures might continue in northern parts of the U.S. into mid-December.
- Scientists are researching the connection between climate change and the frequency of polar vortex events.
