The National Weather Service warns of severe storms and heavy precipitation across the U.S., potentially disrupting one of the busiest travel weekends of the year.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued warnings for severe storms and heavy precipitation across parts of the United States, raising concerns about disruptions to holiday travel during one of the busiest weekends of the year, according to a Dec. 27 forecast.
The NWS reports a “stormy weather pattern” is set to persist across the northwestern U.S., with heavy rain expected in lower elevations and significant snowfall in higher elevations. Rainfall totals of 3–5 inches are likely in areas such as the Washington and Oregon Cascades, northwest California coastal mountains, and the northern Sierra, while snowfall in the highest elevations could reach 1 to 3 feet.
Simultaneously, an “increasingly wet pattern” is developing in the Lower Mississippi Valley, extending to the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast. Severe weather watches have been issued for parts of Texas, Louisiana, and Arkansas, with meteorologists warning of high winds, hail, and potential tornadoes caused by a storm system in the Gulf of Mexico.
Travel Concerns Escalate
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has activated state emergency response resources and urged residents to stay informed. “As Texans and out-of-state visitors begin traveling after the Christmas holiday, it’s crucial that everyone regularly monitor road conditions, make an emergency plan, and heed the guidance of state and local officials,” Abbott said.
Severe weather in Texas caused over 100 flight delays and multiple cancellations at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, Dallas Love Field, and Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport. Nationwide, more than 2,440 flight delays and 86 cancellations were reported Friday morning, according to FlightAware.
Meteorologist Brian Hurley of the Weather Prediction Center highlighted the heightened risks posed by nighttime storms in regions such as southern Arkansas and northern Louisiana, emphasizing that visibility and awareness could be significantly reduced for travelers.
Broader Weather Trends
Despite the storm systems, the NWS noted that “arctic air will remain absent” as warm air flows dominate west-to-east across the nation. Much of the U.S. is experiencing above-average temperatures, reversing the below-average trend that prevailed in December in areas east of the Mississippi River.
According to a Dec. 11 report from the American Automobile Association (AAA), over 119 million Americans are expected to travel 50 miles or more between Dec. 21, 2024, and Jan. 1, 2025. This surge in travel underscores the potential impact of severe weather on roadways, airports, and other transportation hubs.
“Travelers should expect the roads, airports, and cruise terminals to be more crowded than normal,” said Debbie Haas, an AAA official. “We also suggest travel insurance, which provides assistance in the event winter weather or something unexpected interferes with your plans.”
The NWS advises travelers to remain vigilant, monitor local weather updates, and plan accordingly to minimize disruptions.
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