US Holiday Travel Weather Alert: Rain, Fog, and Thunderstorms Disrupt Christmas Week Trips for Holidaymakers

As the holiday season reaches its peak, AccuWeather meteorologists are warning travelers of weather conditions that could impact journeys across parts of the United States this Christmas week. While much of the eastern U.S. will enjoy dry and clear weather, regions in the Midwest and the South may experience slower travel due to rain, thunderstorms, and dense fog.

The northeastern U.S. is set for favorable travel weather as an area of high pressure settles over New England. After a brief storm on Monday night brought a dusting of snow and sleet to parts of the Interstate 95 corridor, including cities like Boston, New York, and Baltimore, the region is now enjoying calm weather.

Travelers in the Northeast can expect smooth conditions for the remainder of the week, with major hubs like New York City, Philadelphia, and Boston benefiting from clear skies and dry roads. However, those venturing westward into the Midwest should prepare for potential weather-related slowdowns.

AccuWeather forecasts rain, drizzle, and widespread fog across the Midwest, creating challenges for holiday travelers. Areas south of Interstate 90, including Chicago, could experience reduced visibility and slippery conditions on untreated bridges and overpasses. These hazards are expected to expand northward into the upper Great Lakes by Thursday.

Temperatures hovering around freezing could exacerbate the situation, particularly in areas prone to dense fog. Drivers on Interstates 70, 80, and 90 are advised to exercise caution and allow extra time for their journeys.

In the southern U.S., a zone of rain and thunderstorms is forecast to affect the middle and lower Mississippi Valley through Wednesday night. Motorists traveling on Interstates 10 and 20 will likely face reduced visibility due to heavy downpours and spray from wet roads.

While most storms will produce only gusty winds and rain, AccuWeather warns of a greater risk of severe weather developing late Thursday into Thursday night. Regions including eastern Texas, southeastern Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana are at risk for severe thunderstorms, which could bring damaging winds and localized flooding.

For travelers navigating potentially hazardous conditions, safety should remain a top priority. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth journey:

While some regions face travel challenges, others can look forward to smooth conditions this Christmas week. Much of the eastern U.S. will remain dry, with clear skies providing ideal conditions for holiday travelers. In contrast, the Midwest and South must contend with wet weather, fog, and thunderstorms, potentially delaying travel plans.

Meanwhile, travelers on the West Coast are bracing for ongoing rain in cities like Seattle and Portland, continuing a wet December for the Pacific Northwest.

Read Travel Industry News in 104 different regional platforms

Get our daily dose of news, by subscribing to our newsletters. Subscribe here.

Watch Travel And Tour World  Interviews here.

Read more Travel News, Daily Travel Alert, and Travel Industry News on Travel And Tour World only.