Thanksgiving Week Forecast: Arctic Cold Front to Sweep Across Illinois, Texas, and the Midwest Bringing Snow and Storm Threats
UNITED STATES — Meteorologists are tracking a significant pattern change that could bring Arctic air, snow, and severe storms to large parts of the U.S., including Illinois, Texas, Oklahoma, and the Midwest, just in time for Thanksgiving week.
According to long-range weather models, a strong Alaskan ridge will develop and push cold air southeast across the country, leading to a major temperature drop and possible multi-day storm system between November 20 and 26.
Arctic Air to Surge Into the Central U.S.
Forecasters warn that this upcoming setup — known as a cross-polar flow — will allow frigid Arctic air to spill from Alaska through the central plains and into the Midwest and Great Lakes regions.
The system will likely send temperatures plunging in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, Kansas, and Oklahoma, while triggering a sharp contrast with lingering warmth across the Southeast and Texas.
That contrast could serve as the fuel for a major storm, possibly producing snow, ice, and severe thunderstorms, depending on how the system develops.
“This pattern opens the door for Arctic air to sweep south and collide with moist air from the Gulf,” meteorologists explained. “That kind of clash often leads to widespread precipitation — rain, snow, or even severe weather.”
Travel Could Be Impacted Nationwide
With millions expected to travel for Thanksgiving, this timing could lead to flight delays, slick roads, and hazardous conditions across multiple states.
Forecast data suggests:
- Heavy snow possible from Minnesota through Illinois and into the Great Lakes region.
- Freezing rain and ice could develop in Missouri, Indiana, and Kentucky.
- Thunderstorms are likely in the southern U.S., including Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi, as cold air meets warmer Gulf moisture.
Strong Alaskan Ridge Driving the Shift
This dramatic change stems from strong atmospheric ridging over Alaska, which will redirect the jet stream and funnel Arctic air deep into the U.S.
Meteorologists say this pattern is typical for late November and can bring record-breaking cold snaps along with dangerous wind chills in the central and northern states.
What to Expect
- Timing: November 20–26, affecting Thanksgiving week travel.
- Main impact zones: Illinois, Texas, Oklahoma, Indiana, Missouri, and surrounding Midwest states.
- Possible conditions: Snow, ice, and severe thunderstorms.
- Travel warning: Expect weather-related delays for both road and air travel during the holiday rush.
Experts emphasize that forecast details will sharpen in the coming days, but the cold blast itself is nearly certain. For now, residents across the Midwest and South should brace for a winter-like Thanksgiving week.
