Thanksgiving Morning Forecast Shows Major Temperature Divide Across the U.S. as Models Hint at Dramatic Black Friday Cooldown
UNITED STATES – A new long-range forecast model suggests that Thanksgiving week could feature a major temperature divide across the country, with a warm South and a sharply colder North. The GFS model indicates that conditions may stay mild across the southern states Thanksgiving morning, before a dramatic nationwide cooldown sweeps in by the evening and into Black Friday.
Thanksgiving Morning Could Start Mild in the South
According to the latest GFS output, Thanksgiving Day could begin with unusually warm temperatures across the South, while much colder air dominates the northern and central U.S. The map shows a stark contrast that resembles a red-vs-blue “electoral college” pattern, highlighting just how sharp the temperature boundary may be.
In this scenario, places across the Deep South may enjoy comfortable, mild conditions early in the day, with warmth extending into states such as Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Texas. At the same time, the northern Plains and Midwest appear locked beneath deep purple and blue cold air, signaling temperatures well below seasonal averages.
Sharp Cooldown Possible by Thanksgiving Evening
Although the South appears warm in the morning, forecasters warn that temperatures could drop quickly later in the day as the colder air dips farther south. Models show the Arctic air mass pressing downward, suggesting that a strong cold front may sweep through the central U.S. during Thanksgiving evening.
This transition could lead to rapidly falling temperatures across much of the country, turning a mild holiday morning into a chilly holiday night for millions.
Black Friday May Bring a Nationwide Temperature “Flip”
The same model suggests that Black Friday could feature a dramatic nationwide temperature flip, with cold air spreading coast to coast. Forecast maps depict widespread cooler-than-normal temperatures overtaking much of the country, creating a stark reversal from the warmth expected earlier in the week.
Meteorologists say this kind of pattern shift is not unusual in late November, but the intensity shown by the model would be notable, with colder air reaching deep into the Southeast.
Forecast Uncertain but Worth Watching
Forecasters emphasize that this scenario remains too early to call with confidence. Long-range models can shift significantly as Thanksgiving approaches, and the exact placement of the warm-cold boundary may change.
Still, the possibility of a major holiday week temperature swing is something meteorologists are monitoring closely, especially with millions of Americans preparing for travel, holiday gatherings, and Black Friday events.
If you’re making travel plans for Thanksgiving week, how are you preparing for potential temperature swings? Share your thoughts and stay updated with SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com for continuing coverage.
