Possible Thanksgiving Storms Could Cause Delays As Record 81.8 Million Americans Expected To Travel

According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), 81.8 million Americans are projected to travel 50 miles or more for Thanksgiving in 2025, a record-high and increase of 1.6 million people compared to 2024. Per the FOX Forecast Center, while details of the Thanksgiving week forecast are still emerging, long-range models suggest the possibility for storms throughout the central United States in the days leading up to and including Thanksgiving Day. (RELATED: Leonid Meteor Shower: What To Know To See Shooting Star Event) AAA reports that Thanksgiving is the busiest travel holiday of the year in the U.S. It’s projected that approximately 73 million Americans will drive, accounting for 90% of all Thanksgiving travelers. 🚗✈️THANKSGIVING TRAVEL: A record-breaking 81.8 million Americans are expected to travel at least 50 miles for Thanksgiving, according to travel company AAA. Long-range guidance indicates the potential for storms across the central U.S. leading up to and on Thanksgiving. Details: pic.twitter.com/x6yE66oM9Q — FOX Weather (@foxweather) November 17, 2025 AAA forecasts that nearly six million Americans will fly to their Thanksgiving destinations this year — a 2% increase over 2024 — despite the impacts of the government shutdown. Travel by bus, train and cruise ship has increased as well compared to 2024. AAA has the travel period for Thanksgiving between Tuesday, Nov. 25-Monday, Dec. 1. The FOX Forecast Center indicates that storms are likely throughout the Southeast next week Monday and Tuesday, with drier conditions expected to return by mid-week — right on schedule for Thanksgiving Day. New York and California rank among the top Thanksgiving destinations, and each state is expected to enjoy dry weather on the holiday itself.