United States: Busy Thanksgiving travel period November 22-26

Event

Travelers may experience crowded conditions and transportation delays across the country during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend that runs from Wednesday, November 22, through Sunday, November 26. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), a record 51 million people are expected to travel during the holiday. Airports in major urban areas, particularly in Atlanta, Chicago, and Los Angeles, will likely experience the highest number of passengers of the year.

Storms are expected to bring potential delays to travel across the Pacific Northwest throughout the week, including high winds and localized flooding. Meanwhile, cold gusty weather and snow showers are forecast to hit the Great Lakes region (Upper Midwest and Northeast) on Wednesday, November 22.

Context

Thanksgiving is traditionally one of the busiest travel periods in the United States. According to AAA, 2017 will see the highest number of travelers since 2005 during the holiday. The increase in traveling comes as a sign of an improving economy, despite rising gas prices.

Advice

Individuals in the United States are advised to expect increased travel times and crowded conditions at airports and train station during the holiday period.