Thanksgiving Weather Calm for Most; Stormy in Northwest
Nov 24, 2011
Happy Thanksgiving! Many of Americans can be thankful for tranquil weather today, with the exception of the Pacific Northwest which will see snowy and windy conditions.
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| Happy Thanksgiving! |
The Pacific Northwest will see a storm system sweep into the area during the day on Thursday. As a result, snow levels will fall to between 2,000 and 3,000 feet in parts of Washington and Oregon. Snowfall amounts may range from 6-12 inches across the higher elevations of Washington, Oregon, and northern California, while to the east, residents will see 1-3 inches of snow. Low elevations will see a persistent, cold rain. Strong winds will blow in behind the storm, causing blowing and drifting snow. In short, areas of the Pacific Northwest will see tricky travel conditions lasting from Thursday afternoon until about noon-time on Friday at the earliest.
Across the rest of the country, the weather will be relatively calm. The Northeast will see clearing throughout the day on Thursday, giving way to a pleasant holiday weekend.
Those in attendance for New York’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade will enjoy clear skies with light winds and temperatures in the 40s and rising to near 50. Although some weather analysts caution balloon handlers may have some trouble with the larger balloons as winds are channeled and accelerated through the urban canyons created by New York’s taller buildings.
As Thanksgiving Day gives way to Black Friday, shoppers hoping to get an early start on their holiday shopping, or just looking to snag a great bargain, should be in for a weather treat across most of the nation.
Many of us will see dry conditions throughout the day, including those east of the Mississippi River, most of California, and the Midwest. While overnight temperatures in these areas will fall (it is November, after all); daytime temperatures should warm up nicely, with the only exception being the southeast, which will see cooler than normal daytime temperatures. Overnight shoppers should plan to dress warmly; especially if you plan on waiting outside for a long period of time.
Again, those in the Pacific Northwest, especially above 2,000 feet, will see Black Friday marred by cold, snowy and windy conditions. Areas too low in elevation for snow will see a cold rain persist for at least the first half of the day, perhaps later. Certainly those of you wishing to take advantage of the midnight sales will experience difficult travel and may want to rethink standing outside waiting for the doors to open. In fact, I’d recommend waiting to Cyber Monday to start your holiday shopping.
Scattered showers and thunderstorms are also possible Friday across the southern Plains. These showers may produce heavy downpours and gusty winds, so an umbrella or rain coat will be appropriate to have with you.
