The aftermath of the Christmas holiday is set to be marked by turbulent weather across various parts of the United States, impacting travel plans for millions returning home. From severe thunderstorms in the South to persistent rainfall and snow in the Northeast and West Coast, the closing week of 2024 promises a challenging weather landscape.
The South, having experienced severe weather on Thursday, particularly in Texas with flight disruptions in Dallas and Houston, will face a two-day severe weather threat. While Friday’s risks are relatively muted, limited to a level 1 threat along the Gulf Coast, thunderstorms are expected to affect travel from Nashville to New Orleans, extending northwards to the Ohio Valley and Great Lakes. The threat escalates significantly on Saturday, encompassing large swathes of Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Alabama, with a level 2 or 3 out of 5 severe weather risk. The potential for strong tornadoes, large hail, and damaging winds is anticipated, urging residents to stay vigilant and monitor weather updates closely.
The Northeast, fresh from its first white Christmas in 15 years in New York City, will experience a drastic shift to milder temperatures and persistent rainfall, melting away the recent snowfall. Multiple weather systems are expected to impact the region, starting Friday, creating a wet and unsettled pattern through the remainder of the year. This will significantly impact travel plans for those returning home after the holidays. The first system, a weakened version of the one responsible for Thursday’s severe weather in the Southern Plains, will bring light, scattered showers and a potential glaze of freezing rain across portions of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York. Winter Weather Advisories have been issued accordingly.
A second system, originating from the Rockies and carrying Gulf moisture, will arrive on Sunday, increasing the risk of flash flooding in the interior Northeast. A third system looms on the horizon, threatening to disrupt New Year’s Eve celebrations with potential rainfall. This succession of weather systems will pose challenges for travel and outdoor activities in the Northeast through the end of the year.
The West Coast, specifically the Pacific Northwest, continues to bear the brunt of a series of storms moving in from the Pacific. Seattle, for example, has experienced 15 consecutive days of rainfall. By the weekend, seven distinct weather systems will have impacted the region, delivering varying intensities of atmospheric rivers. This relentless barrage of rainfall is expected to continue, with several more inches anticipated across western Washington, Oregon, and northern California.
The cumulative effect of this prolonged rainfall raises significant concerns about flooding and landslides, particularly at lower elevations. In mountainous areas, heavy snowfall is expected, with potential accumulations of over 7 feet along the higher peaks of the Cascades. These conditions have made mountain pass travel treacherous, with frequent spinouts and closures reported.
The combination of heavy rainfall and substantial snowfall will significantly impact travel and infrastructure in the region. The continuous influx of moisture from the Pacific will perpetuate these hazardous conditions, requiring residents and travelers to exercise extreme caution and stay informed about weather updates.
In summary, the post-holiday period presents a complex weather scenario across the United States. While the South grapples with the threat of severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hail, the Northeast faces persistent rainfall, melting snow, and a risk of flash flooding. Meanwhile, the West Coast, particularly the Pacific Northwest, continues to endure heavy rainfall and substantial snowfall, leading to concerns about flooding, landslides, and treacherous mountain travel. These diverse weather patterns will pose significant challenges for those traveling and necessitate careful monitoring of weather forecasts and adherence to safety precautions.
