Thanksgiving travel this year is expected to hit record highs, with nearly 80 million people traveling 50 miles or more during the holiday week, according to AAA. Most of these travelers will take to the roads, creating unprecedented congestion that will heavily impact traffic flow. Adding to the complexity, weather conditions across parts of the U.S. could exacerbate delays and create safety concerns for professional drivers and fleet operators.
Surge in Holiday Traffic
AAA predicts that 71.1 million of the 80 million Thanksgiving travelers will travel by car, a 1.3 million increase from last year. Major metropolitan areas such as Boston, Los Angeles, New York, Seattle, and Washington, D.C., are expected to experience traffic levels more than double those of a typical day, according to transportation analysts.
Popular rental car cities like Atlanta, Phoenix, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Orlando, and Miami will see an influx of drivers unfamiliar with local roads, potentially adding to congestion and increasing risks for fleet operators. Traffic patterns suggest that while the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after remain the busiest travel days, congestion on the Tuesday before and the Monday after has also increased, as many travelers attempt to avoid peak times.
Transportation analytics company INRIX warns that Wednesday afternoon will be the most challenging time to navigate highways, as travelers make their final push to destinations. However, Thanksgiving Day itself is expected to bring lighter traffic conditions.
Weather Woes: Daily Breakdown
In addition to the anticipated traffic surge, drivers will need to contend with freezing temperatures, snow, and rain in certain regions. Here’s a day-by-day forecast for the holiday week:
Wednesday (Pre-Thanksgiving Rush)
- Rockies: Heavy snowfall of 4 to 12 inches in areas of Idaho, Nevada, Colorado, and Wyoming. Winter weather warnings are in effect.
- Mid-Mississippi Valley to the Ohio Valley: Light rain and thunderstorms possible.
- Southern Great Lakes: Light snowfall expected, particularly in the evening hours.
Thursday (Thanksgiving Day)
- Great Lakes Region: Lake-effect snow develops, persisting through the week.
- Northeast and Appalachians: Snow at higher elevations in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, upstate New York, and parts of New England.
- Southeast: Morning showers and isolated thunderstorms could affect travel.
Friday (Black Friday Travel)
- Great Lakes Region: Lake-effect snow bands will continue, especially along major highways like I-90 and I-81.
- Midwest: Brisk winds could affect travel conditions.
- Central Florida: Showers and thunderstorms ahead of a cold front.
Saturday
- Great Lakes and Northeast: Intensified lake-effect snow could lead to significant travel disruptions.
- Central Plains and Mid-Mississippi Valley: Snowfall expected in Kansas, Missouri, and southern Illinois, potentially creating hazardous road conditions.
Sunday (Post-Holiday Rush)
- Great Lakes and Northeast: Continued snowfall may result in major travel issues as accumulation builds over several days.
- Other Regions: Calm weather expected in most other parts of the country.
Tips for Fleet Drivers and Dispatchers
With heightened congestion and unpredictable weather, professional drivers should plan for delays and potential hazards. Key strategies include:
- Travel Timing: Aim to drive during off-peak hours whenever possible.
- Weather Preparedness: Monitor conditions and adjust routes to avoid areas with severe weather.
- Driver Safety: Ensure vehicles are equipped for winter conditions, including snow chains, de-icing materials, and emergency supplies.
- Communication: Maintain constant communication with dispatchers for real-time updates on road closures and traffic conditions.
By anticipating delays, preparing for adverse weather, and adjusting schedules as needed, fleet operators can help ensure smoother and safer operations during this exceptionally busy Thanksgiving travel season.
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