Holiday weather forecast: Will there be a white Christmas?
The holiday season is upon us, and this year is expected to be one of the busiest for travel. However, rough weather can make getting to your Christmas destination even more challenging. Let’s take a look at the Christmas week weather forecast to help you prepare for your holiday travels.
Tuesday
The Northeast is set to receive some pre-Christmas snow on Tuesday. New York City will experience snowfall from about 6 a.m. to noon, while Boston will see snow from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Around 1 inch of snow is expected along the Interstate 95 corridor, with 3 to 6 inches possible in the inland Northeast. On the West Coast, a storm will move in Tuesday night, bringing heavy rain and strong winds. If you’re driving to your Christmas destination, it’s best to leave during the day on Tuesday.
Wednesday
Christmas Eve will be calm across most of the country, except for the West Coast. Heavy rain is forecast to fall on burn scar areas in Southern California, posing a level 3 out of 4 risk for excessive rain and flash flooding. Some parts of Southern California could see up to 9 inches of rain on Tuesday night and Wednesday, leading to potential debris flows and landslides.
Thursday
Christmas Day will bring record high temperatures for millions from the Midwest to the South. Temperatures could soar to record highs of 66 degrees in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Rapid City, South Dakota; 79 degrees in Midland, Texas; 77 degrees in St. Louis, Missouri; and 75 degrees in Atlanta. While not record highs, temperatures may also reach 80 degrees in Austin and Houston, 79 degrees in Miami and Orlando, Florida, and 72 degrees in Memphis, Tennessee. Even Washington, D.C., will warm up to 53 degrees.
Inland New England is one of the few areas with a good chance of a white Christmas, thanks to the snowfall on Tuesday lingering on the ground through Christmas Day. Some mountainous regions in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Colorado, and California will also experience a white Christmas. The West Coast will continue to face rough weather, with another round of rain and mountain snow expected on Christmas Day.
As you make your holiday travel plans, be sure to stay informed about the weather conditions in your area and along your route. Safe travels and happy holidays!
