Thanksgiving 2025: Bad weather and storms likely to trigger delays as nearly 82 million people are expected to travel this holiday; check weather forecast

Millions of Americans planning air travel for Thanksgiving 2025 face significant disruption as a major storm is forecast to impact the eastern two-thirds of the United States. AccuWeather meteorologists predict widespread delays for both road and air travelers, with the busiest air travel days expected to be Tuesday, November 25, and Wednesday, November 26, 2025. This severe weather event poses a substantial challenge for airlines and airports across the nation, impacting passenger services and operational efficiency during one of the year's peak travel periods.

The storm's trajectory indicates it will emerge from Texas, moving through the Midwest into the Northeast. Regions from northeast Texas through Arkansas, eastern Missouri, and southern Illinois are expected to experience initial delays. Forecasters also warn of potential strong to severe thunderstorms impacting travel through major hubs like Atlanta or Florida by Wednesday, November 26. Additionally, high winds could significantly affect flight operations in Chicago and Minneapolis, exacerbating the holiday travel chaos.

While the storm is anticipated to lose some intensity as it reaches the Northeast, even a few hours of rain can create considerable problems for runways and air traffic control from Washington, D.C., to Philadelphia, New York City, and Boston. The sheer volume of travelers, with AAA forecasting six million Americans flying domestically—an increase of 2% compared to 2024—amplifies the potential for widespread delays and cancellations. Airlines and airport authorities are preparing for heightened operational challenges during this peak travel period, with Sunday, November 30, 2025, projected as the single busiest air travel day.