Old Farmer’s Almanac Predicts Snow on Thanksgiving

Key Highlights

  • The Old Farmer’s Almanac released its 2025 Thanksgiving week outlook, predicting mild conditions for most regions of the United States.
  • Snow is predicted in select northern and high-elevation areas including northern New England, Upper Midwest, Intermountain West, and Alaska.
  • Meteorologists caution that a strong cold front will bring snow to the Dakotas, Upper Midwest, and lake-effect snow showers in New England.
  • Travelers are advised to monitor local five-day forecasts for updates on potential travel disruptions due to weather conditions.

Old Farmer’s Almanac Predicts Snow on Thanksgiving

As families prepare for the annual tradition of gathering with loved ones, the Old Farmer’s Almanac has released its long-range forecast for the 2025 Thanksgiving week. This year, Thanksgiving falls on Thursday, November 27th. The Almanac offers travel guidance and weather insights to help ensure that festivities proceed as planned.

Regional Weather Outlook

The Almanac’s outlook indicates a diverse mix of weather conditions across the United States, with mild temperatures expected for most regions. However, select northern and high-elevation areas are predicted to experience snowfall. Here is a detailed breakdown:

  • Northern New England (Northeast Region): Travelers should be prepared for colder-than-average temperatures with the possibility of snowflakes in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont.
  • Upper Midwest: Residents and travelers are advised to anticipate mild temperatures but remain vigilant about occasional snow flurries.

    Wintry bursts could cause slippery roads and impact visibility for drivers.

  • Intermountain Region (Rocky Mountains and higher terrain): Thanksgiving week will bring a mix of rain and snow, particularly in the higher elevations of Rocky Mountain states. Travelers navigating mountain passes or planning outdoor activities should anticipate potential weather-related disruptions.
  • Alaska: Colder air will dominate throughout the week with occasional snow showers, leading to wintry travel conditions including slick surfaces and reduced visibility.

In contrast, most of the East Coast, Mid-Atlantic, South, Heartland, and Desert Southwest are forecasted to experience sunshine and mild to warm temperatures. These regions are expected to minimize travel concerns related to weather disruptions.

Expert Insights

Meteorologists at AccuWeather have provided additional insight into the upcoming Thanksgiving week weather conditions. Chad Merrill, a senior meteorologist at AccuWeather, shared that a strong cold front is anticipated to pass through the western and central parts of the United States during this period.

We are looking at a pretty strong cold front coming through the western and central part of the United States Thanksgiving week, and when that comes through it’s going to produce a bit of snow.

— Chad Merrill, AccuWeather senior meteorologist

Merrill also noted that the cold front will be accompanied by gusty winds, which could reduce visibility in the Upper Midwest. The cold front is expected to trek eastward, bringing snowfall to the Dakotas and Upper Midwest regions, as well as lake-effect snow showers in New England.

Preparation Tips for Travelers

The Old Farmer’s Almanac reminds readers that its forecasts are long-range and designed primarily for planning purposes. For the most up-to-date information on potential travel disruptions due to weather conditions, travelers should monitor local five-day forecasts closely. In snow-prone regions, road conditions and airline updates should also be monitored for possible delays or cancellations.

As Thanksgiving approaches, meteorologists recommend that travelers in potentially affected areas remain prepared with alternative plans and communication strategies to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday season.