Thanksgiving travelers in 2025 are set to experience a wide range of weather conditions across the United States, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac’s long-range forecast.
As millions of Americans prepare for what the American Automobile Association describes as the busiest holiday travel period of the year, the outlook provides early guidance for families planning their routes and festivities.
A Patchwork Forecast Across the Nation
The Almanac forecasts a “patchwork of weather” for Thanksgiving week. Sunshine is expected to dominate much of the East, while the western half of the country faces rain and cooler temperatures.
Snowfall will be limited to select northern regions, including northern New England, the Upper Midwest, higher elevations of the Intermountain West, and Alaska.
Regional Forecasts for Thanksgiving Week
Northeast and Atlantic Corridor
In the Northeast, temperatures will be colder than average, with snow possible in northern New England. Southern areas of the region should remain mostly sunny and dry. Along the Atlantic Corridor, temperatures will drop from mild to chilly, but the weather is expected to stay clear for most of the week.
Appalachians, Southeast, and Florida
The Appalachian region will see sunshine with cooler-than-normal temperatures in the north and slightly warmer conditions to the south. In the Southeast, the week begins on a chilly note before turning milder and sunny—ideal for outdoor gatherings.
Florida will also start cooler before warming to mild, pleasant conditions later in the week.
Midwest, Lakes, and Ohio Valley
The Lower Lakes region is forecast to be warmer than usual, with abundant sunshine and little chance of precipitation. The Ohio Valley will start the week chilly before warming closer to Thanksgiving, with only brief showers possible midweek.
The Upper Midwest can expect mild conditions with occasional light snow flurries but generally calm weather.
Central U.S., Plains, and Heartland
The Heartland will see unseasonably warm temperatures, with the potential for light rain toward the end of the week. In the Texas-Oklahoma region, the north should stay warm and dry, while southern areas could see passing showers.
Across the High Plains, travelers can expect cold but clear conditions, making for good driving weather despite the chill.
West, Mountains, Alaska, and Hawaii
In the Intermountain West, a mix of rain and snow is expected as temperatures drop throughout the week. Mountain passes and higher elevations may experience occasional travel disruptions. The Desert Southwest should stay mostly warm and dry, with only a few isolated showers possible.
The Pacific Northwest will have rain, particularly heavier in southern areas, with below-average temperatures. The Pacific Southwest will turn colder and experience scattered showers through Thanksgiving week.
Alaska will face snow showers for much of the week, creating potentially slick travel conditions, while Hawaii will have cooler-than-normal temperatures with brief, isolated showers that may temporarily interrupt outdoor plans.
Insights from the Almanac Editors
Carol Connare, editor of The Old Farmer’s Almanac, said this year’s Thanksgiving weather should bring “about the same amount of weather-related disruptions as last year, though in different areas.”
She explained that the 2025 forecast predicts sunshine across much of the East and rainy conditions in the West, with some snow likely in northern regions and higher elevations.
Sarah Perreault, managing editor of The Old Farmer’s Almanac, said the publication remains a timeless seasonal guide, known for its wit, wisdom, and practical advice that resonates across generations. She emphasized that each new edition retains its signature style of optimism and humor.
Looking Ahead
The publication reminds readers that its long-range forecasts are designed for planning rather than replacing local weather updates. “Remember, Almanac long-range forecasts are exactly that—long range,” it said. “They’re perfect for planning, but not a substitute for daily local forecasts.”
FAQs
What does The Old Farmer’s Almanac predict for Thanksgiving 2025?
The Old Farmer’s Almanac predicts a patchwork of weather across the United States for Thanksgiving 2025, with sunshine expected in much of the East and rainy or snowy conditions in parts of the West and North.
Which regions will have the best Thanksgiving weather in 2025?
The East Coast, including the Northeast, Atlantic Corridor, and much of the Southeast, is expected to have the best Thanksgiving weather, featuring sunny skies and cooler but comfortable temperatures.
Where could travelers encounter snow during Thanksgiving week?
Snow is possible in northern New England, the Upper Midwest, higher elevations of the Intermountain West, and parts of Alaska, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac’s forecast.
What is the weather outlook for the western United States?
Rain and colder temperatures are forecast across much of the West, including the Pacific Northwest, Pacific Southwest, and Intermountain West, where some areas may also see a mix of rain and snow.
Will Alaska and Hawaii see unusual Thanksgiving weather?
Yes. Alaska is expected to have snow showers throughout the week, creating slick travel conditions, while Hawaii may see cooler-than-usual temperatures with a few brief, isolated rain showers.
Are The Old Farmer’s Almanac forecasts accurate for travel planning?
The Almanac’s long-range forecasts are useful for planning but are not meant to replace local daily forecasts. The publication advises travelers to check updated local weather reports closer to their departure dates.
